Senior Attorney

Bernalillo County•Albuquerque, NM

9d•$89,128 - $140,733

About The Position

The Senior Attorney serves as legal counsel to the Board of County Commissioners, County management, and other elected officials. The position drafts and reviews ordinances, resolutions, contracts, administrative policies, and other legal documents to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. It represents the County in judicial and administrative proceedings and provides legal advice on complex issues affecting County operations. The role may involve advising County departments on employment, labor relations, land use, and other relevant legal matters; conducting research and analysis; preparing formal legal opinions; and supervising or coordinating outside or contract counsel as assigned. Job duties may vary depending on specific assignments and responsibilities.

Requirements

J.D. or L.L.B. degree from an accredited academic institution.
Valid license to practice law in the State of New Mexico.
Demonstrated good standing with the New Mexico State Supreme Court.
Five years of experience practicing law, including litigation, appellate experience, coordination of multiple litigation assignments, and advising clients on legal compliance.
Successful completion of a post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
Adherence to all County safety guidelines.
Completion of all FEMA training assigned to the position.
Valid New Mexico driver’s license by the date of hire and maintenance of a valid license while employed.
Completion of required supervisor training, if applicable.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of law and concepts relevant to the operation of County government.

Responsibilities

Serves as legal counsel to elected officials and County management on matters requiring legal advice or representation.
Drafts and reviews ordinances, resolutions, contracts, administrative policies, rules, regulations, and other legal documents to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
Prepares legal documents related to County operations and matters pending before courts, quasi-judicial bodies, or administrative agencies.
Conducts legal research and analysis to support County functions and policy decisions.
Prepares formal legal opinions at the request of the County Attorney regarding statutory, regulatory, and common law issues.
Represents the Board of County Commissioners, County management, or other designated clients in state and federal courts, and before quasi-judicial or administrative bodies.
Provides legal advice to County departments on employment, labor relations, land use, and other relevant legal matters.
Collaborates with Legal Department staff, opposing counsel, and the public in a collegial and professional manner.
Supervises or coordinates the work of outside or contract counsel as assigned.