This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.
The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.
Summary
Provides or assists in the provision of legal counsel to specified organizational units of the institution. Performs standard legal work and/or participates in the performance of complex legal work to include such areas as research, policy review, legal compliance issues, contract reviews, property sale/acquisition, employment, and/or clinical affairs. Participates and/or assists in the conduct of litigation as assigned.
Duties and Responsibilities
Responds to legal issues as assigned, and counsels management in order to develop legal strategies and solutions.
Drafts, reviews, and approves policies and procedures, regulations, bylaws, and other legal documents.
Researches and analyzes laws and regulations; educates and trains University community about legal issues.
Conducts and/or assists in the conduct of legal research and analysis; prepares written and verbal opinions of counsel as needed.
Reviews, prepares, and approves contracts involving leases, licenses, purchases, sales, insurance, employment, research and related matters.
Represents University management, as assigned, in administrative hearings; participates and/or assists in the representation of the University and its officials in litigation, as appropriate.
Negotiates settlements involving legal issues or transactions on behalf of the University, in conjunction with more senior University Counsel and other University officials.
Maintains professional growth and development through seminars, workshops, and professional affiliations to keep abreast of latest developments in college and university law and in other related areas.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
J.D. or LL.B; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Member of NM State Bar, or member in good standing of the State Bar of another state or District of Columbia.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Ability to develop and deliver presentations.
Knowledge of contract documents and specifications.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to represent University officials in litigation or administrative proceedings.
Knowledge of process requirements of administrative hearings and litigation.
Ability to draft legal documents, such as pleadings, legal responses, affidavits, position statements and briefs.
Knowledge of current and developing legal issues and trends in area of expertise.
Knowledge of the principles and procedures of legal research.
Knowledge and understanding of institutional policies and procedures and the regulatory environment within which they operate.
Negotiating skills.
Knowledge of legal documentation procedures and requirements.
Ability to develop and implement legal strategies and solutions.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) provision of professional legal counsel on standard to moderately complex legal issues; b) performance of legal research on standard to moderately complex issues; c) preparation of written and verbal legal opinions; d) review and analysis of documents for legal compliance; e) representation of University management in standard to moderately complex legal proceedings; and f) negotiation of settlements on standard to moderately complex legal issues.
Conditions of Employment
Employees in this job title are subject to the terms and conditions of an employment contract. Employment contracts are typically subject to review and renewal on an annual basis.
Successful candidate who is not a member of the NM State Bar is required to obtain a temporary Public Employee Limited License issued by the NM Supreme Court.
Must become a member of the NM State Bar no later than one (1) year after date of hire.
Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
No or very limited physical effort required.
No or very limited exposure to physical risk.
Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.
