Criminal Defense Attorney (Remote Candidates) (40352)

Law Offices Of The Public Defender•Roswell, NM

14h•Hybrid

About The Position

At the Law Offices of the Public Defender in Roswell, NM, we offer a flexible work environment, welcoming candidates who can telework and manage cases effectively from anywhere in the United States. The primary focus of this role is to provide high-quality legal services, develop strategies, and advocate for clients in court. We are seeking individuals ready for the next challenge in their legal careers, to work with zealous colleagues, and represent clients needing expertise in Roswell. The position includes an attractive compensation package with potential pay differentials for selected candidates, including out-of-state, temporary recruitment, and geographical differentials. Licensing fees and bar dues will be paid or reimbursed, and travel reimbursement is available in accordance with state rules. The role may be classified as a Public Defender 2, 3, or 4, with classification determined at the time of hire based on qualifications and agency needs. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and is classified as Exempt under FLSA.

Requirements

Current license as an attorney issued by the New Mexico Supreme Court or eligible for limited license issued by New Mexico Supreme Court (PD2, PD3, PD4).
One (1) year of experience as a practicing attorney (PD3).
Four (4) years of experience as a practicing attorney (PD4).
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Employment eligibility to work with the Law Offices of the Public Defender (LOPD) in the U.S. is required.
Must show competence in all levels PD2 through PD4.

Nice To Haves

Preference may be given to multilingual applicants fluent in English and other languages.

Responsibilities

Handle a variety of misdemeanors and may assist in juvenile cases and youthful offender cases (PD2).
Assist higher-level attorneys with complex cases (PD2).
Conduct plea bargaining with District Attorneys and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases.
Attend seminars, training classes, and review current professional literature to maintain and develop professional skills and knowledge.
Draft/review, propose, and prepare reports and legal documents.
Represent clients in all misdemeanors or juvenile cases and low to medium level felonies with limited supervision (PD3).
Provide guidance and mentoring to lower-level attorneys and law clerks (PD3).
Handle felony cases such as burglaries, drug crimes, property crimes, and probation violations with limited supervision (PD4).
May handle more complex level felonies with some guidance/direction from a higher-level attorney/managing attorney (PD4).
Acquire sufficient knowledge and/or experience to handle an appellate caseload (PD4).
Prepare appellate briefs and argue cases before the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court with some direction from higher-level attorneys (PD4).
Provide guidance and advice to lower-level attorneys (PD4).
Work independently and be able to recognize and resolve complex issues related to the caseload (PD4).
Perform related and other duties as assigned.