DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Manage the daily operations of the Legal Department, including but not limited to: assigning and reviewing casework of all County attorneys; overseeing the budget; and handling other operational functions.
Provide legal services to the County, including preparation and prosecution of cases and development of trial strategy.
Prepare, draft, and review County ordinances, resolutions, bond provisions, contracts, deeds, and other legal documents.
Represent the Board of County Commissioners, County management, and/or designated clients in state and federal courts, as well as before judicial or administrative bodies.
Advise the County Manager and Commissioners on all legal matters affecting the County and attend relevant administrative meetings.
Oversee and prepare legal opinions regarding statutory law, common law, and administrative practices.
Serve as a legal advisor on complex personnel matters.
Provide legal guidance to various County departments, as requested.
Direct and manage the work of attorneys within the Legal Department; collaborate with opposing counsel and members of the public in a collegial and professional manner.
Supervise or direct the work of outside counsel or contract attorneys, as assigned.
*The above information is intended to outline the general nature and scope of the duties required for this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may vary depending on specific job assignments and responsibilities.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Juris Doctor (JD) degree with a valid license to practice law in the State of New Mexico, and a demonstrated status of “good standing” with the New Mexico State Supreme Court.
A minimum of ten (10) years of legal practice, including litigation, appellate experience, and handling multiple issues relevant to local government operations.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
SCREENING AND COMPLIANCE
The offer of this Bernalillo County position requires compliance with the following:
Successful completion of a post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
Compliance with the County’s safety guidelines.
Maintenance of current continuing legal education requirements and state license qualifications.
Completion of required FEMA training(s) as assigned to the position.
Completion of required Supervisor classes, if applicable.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Duties are performed indoors in a temperature-controlled environment.
Duties are performed on an even, dry surface, which may include carpet or tile.
Most duties are performed independently, though some may be part of a select team.
EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS
Equipment typically used in the performance of duties includes: computer, telephone, calculator, facsimile machine, and photocopy machine.
Materials and products handled during the performance of duties include: various documents, writing utensils, and an assortment of office supplies and equipment.