Staff Attorney- Veterans Practice Attorney

New Mexico Legal Aid; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

New Mexico Legal Aid is seeking a Staff Attorney for its Veterans Practice to provide legal services to low-income clients and veterans. The role involves advising clients, representing them in court, and developing partnerships with local VA facilities. Ideal candidates should have experience in legal advocacy and a commitment to community service.

Benefits

Unionized work environment

Generous leave package

Competitive salary based on experience

Qualifications

• Two years' experience as a licensed attorney preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and caseloads.
• Willingness to travel for outreach.

Responsibilities

• Advising clients and helping prepare paperwork.
• Representing clients in court and administrative proceedings.
• Conducting community education and outreach.

Skills

Communication

Collaboration

Advocacy

Technology proficiency

Job description

Join to apply for the Staff Attorney - Veterans Practice Attorney role at New Mexico Legal Aid.

New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) provides civil legal services to low-income New Mexicans on issues such as domestic violence, family law, consumer protection, housing, and benefits. NMLA has locations throughout the state, including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Gallup, Roswell, Silver City, Clovis, Hobbs, Las Vegas, Taos, and Santa Ana.

We are seeking a Staff Attorney to serve low-income clients and US Armed Services Veterans. The position is primarily based in Albuquerque, with extensive collaboration with the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center, and may involve work throughout New Mexico.

The Work Will Include

1. Advising clients;
2. Helping them prepare paperwork;
3. Representing clients in court and administrative proceedings;
4. Conducting community education and outreach to eligible clients, veterans support organizations, and the Veterans Administration (VA);
5. Developing a Medical-Legal Partnership with the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center or other VA medical facilities;
6. Being active in local bar and community activities;
7. Recruiting and collaborating with pro bono attorneys.

For this position, the Staff Attorney must obtain and maintain accreditation to appear before the Veteran's Administration on VA cases.

The NMLA office in Albuquerque handles a wide range of creative, challenging, and complex work. We seek highly motivated candidates passionate about helping NMLA serve our communities, with skills to handle complex advocacy and extended cases.

Requirements

1. Two years' experience as a licensed attorney preferred;
2. Admission to practice before the VA preferred, but must be obtained expeditiously after hire if not already admitted;
3. Willingness to travel, especially for outreach to regional populations;
4. Ability to effectively use computer technology and remote communication tools for collaboration;
5. Excellent written and oral communication skills;
6. Ability to manage multiple tasks and caseloads;
7. Ability to build collaborative relationships within the staff and community.

NMLA Employees Enjoy

• Unionized work environment;
• Great work environment and benefits, including a generous leave package;
• Competitive salary (dependent on experience).

Applicants must submit a current resume and cover letter explaining how they meet the skills and qualifications, along with their interest in NMLA. Applications are considered only if both documents are received. To apply, click here or email your application to [e-mail].

Salary is DOE. NMLA is an EEO employer. Deadline: May 30, 2025.

Applicants will undergo a background check. Persons with records are encouraged to apply, as NMLA is committed to a diverse workforce.