Public Defender 2 (48981)

Law Offices Of The Public Defender • Albuquerque, NM

4d

About The Position

The Public Defender 2 provides professional legal services for the Law Offices of the Public Defender, representing juvenile and adult indigent clients in litigation, appeals, counsel, research, and analysis. Attorneys at this level may handle misdemeanor, juvenile, youthful-offender, or appellate cases and may assist higher-level attorneys with complex cases. Work is performed under the direction, guidance, and supervision of more experienced colleagues and a supervisor or manager.

The position starts at $37.74 per hour for selected candidates and qualifies for an additional hourly retention pay differential of $0.76, or $1,580.80 annually, as applicable. Flexible work arrangements may be available, including teleworking and schedules outside the typical 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule; applicants are encouraged to discuss the details with the hiring manager. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. It is classified as exempt, and authorized work beyond 80 hours in a pay period may qualify for compensatory time at a 1:1 rate when requested in advance and approved by a supervisor; cash payments for extra hours are not available. Compensatory time may be paid out upon leaving the department depending on budget availability. The position may also qualify for a geographic pay differential.

Requirements

• Be licensed to practice law in New Mexico or be eligible for a limited license issued by the New Mexico Supreme Court.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Be eligible to work in the United States for the Law Offices of the Public Defender; employment visa sponsorship or transfer is not available.

Nice To Haves

• Fluency in English and another language; preference may be given to multilingual applicants.

Responsibilities

• Represent juvenile and adult indigent clients in litigation, appeals, counsel, research, and analysis.
• Handle misdemeanor, juvenile, youthful-offender, or appellate cases.
• Assist higher-level attorneys with complex cases.
• Advise and counsel clients regarding case strategy and possible outcomes.
• Conduct plea bargaining, when appropriate, with District Attorneys and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases.
• Attend seminars and training classes and review current professional literature to maintain and develop professional skills and knowledge.
• Draft, review, propose, and prepare reports and legal documents.
• Perform related and other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed