Staff Attorney – Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC)
About The Position
New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) is hiring a Staff Attorney for its Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC), based in Albuquerque and serving clients throughout New Mexico. NMLA provides civil legal services to low-income New Mexicans to promote family and economic stability and help clients access food, shelter, and security while preserving their unique cultural heritages. The LITC is the largest and oldest in the state. The attorney will coordinate and complete income tax controversy casework, including litigation. Cases involve federal or New Mexico income tax and may include IRS audits, IRS and New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department administrative appeals, and U.S. Tax Court cases. Common issues include child-based tax credits, offers in compromise, innocent spouse relief, tax-related identity theft, and cancellation of debt income. Nearly every case requires extensive representation. Services are provided through direct representation, legal advocacy, and community engagement. The position is part of a collective bargaining agreement, with pay determined by years of experience and the union salary scale. NMLA describes its work environment as collaborative and offers support for less experienced attorneys. The role is full-time, with a 37.5-hour work week and a hybrid schedule of three days in the office and two days remote each week.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
- Licensed to practice law in New Mexico, or able to become licensed within six months of hire.
- Admission to practice before the U.S. Tax Court, or ability to obtain admission soon after hire.
- Ability to manage a caseload and handle multiple priorities effectively.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Strong analytical skills and sound legal judgment.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Ability to build collaborative relationships with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
- Proficiency with computer technology, including remote communication tools, shared online workspaces, and case management systems.
- Willingness and ability to travel as needed.
Nice To Haves
- Income tax coursework and/or tax practice experience.
- Experience working at a civil legal services provider.
- Experience working with low-income or underserved populations.
- Proficiency in Spanish.
Responsibilities
- Provide legal advice, brief services, and full representation to clients in legal matters.
- Coordinate and complete federal and New Mexico income tax controversy casework, including litigation.
- Interview clients, assess legal issues, and develop case strategies aligned with applicable law and program priorities.
- Prepare legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and other filings.
- Represent clients in court hearings, administrative proceedings, and appeals as needed.
- Conduct legal research, factual investigation, and discovery to support case development.
- Maintain accurate and timely case files and documentation in accordance with program requirements.
- Manage an active caseload, prioritize urgent matters, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, external partners, co-counsel, and community organizations.
- Conduct community outreach and legal education for clients, service providers, and community groups.
- Participate in program initiatives, special projects, and advocacy efforts supporting low-income communities.
- Participate in the ABA LITC Listserv and frequently monitor administrative, statutory, and case law tax developments.
- Travel to the annual LITC conference in Washington, D.C., and occasional tax outreach and education events.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- 100% employer-paid BCBS medical insurance.
- Dental and vision coverage for employees.
- Employer contributions toward dependent coverage.
- Paid time off, including annual leave starting at three weeks per year, six days of personal time, 15 holidays, and sick leave.
- Eligibility for a sabbatical program.
- Hybrid work schedule: three days in the office and two days remote each week.
- 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions and matching.
- Meaningful mission-driven work serving New Mexico communities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
