Medical-Legal Partnership Staff Attorney

New Mexico Legal Aid • Santa Fe, NM

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) is seeking a Staff Attorney to provide legal services to patients referred by Christus St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe as part of a Medical-Legal Partnership. This position is based in the Santa Fe office and reports to the Northern Managing Attorney, involving significant on-site work at the hospital. The Staff Attorney will manage a broad range of civil legal matters for patients and their family members, focusing on social determinants of health with legal implications and removing legal barriers impacting patient care or discharge. Legal matters may include public benefits, housing instability, consumer debt, economic security, advance directives, and decisional capacity. The role supports the partnership through direct legal services, collaboration, and community engagement.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Licensed to practice law in New Mexico, or the ability to become licensed within six months of hire.
• Ability to manage a caseload and handle multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with colleagues, community partners, and stakeholders.
• Proficiency with computer technology, including remote communication tools, shared online workspaces, and videoconferencing platforms.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff across multiple offices.

Nice To Haves

• Two or three years of experience as a licensed attorney preferred.
• Proficiency in Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and representation to patients in civil legal matters.
• Prepare for and appear in court and administrative proceedings as needed.
• Collaborate with healthcare providers to identify and address legal issues impacting patient health.
• Conduct trainings and legal education for hospital staff to help identify potential legal needs.
• Assist in the preparation of reports on program activities and outcomes.
• Participate in hospital meetings, including potential board or stakeholder presentations.
• Engage in local bar and community activities to support outreach and program visibility.
• Contribute to team strategies and cross-office collaboration within NMLA.
• Other duties and casework as assigned.

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid BCBS medical, plus dental and vision for employees; generous contributions for dependents
• 3 weeks vacation time, 6 days personal time, sick pay, and federal holidays off
• Comp time for overtime
• Hybrid work schedule (3 days in office, 2 days remote)
• 37.5-hour work week
• 403(b) Retirement Plan

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree