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
Performs varied paralegal work involving a moderate level of difficulty to assist University Counsel, other attorneys, and/or higher level paralegals with routine aspects of legal and factual research, data compilation and analysis, drafting legal documents and affidavits, and under supervision, conveying routine legal information to stakeholders.
Duties and Responsibilities
As specifically directed by attorneys, conveys routine information to client management regarding legal and/or contractual issues associated with existing or proposed operational situations.
Conducts routine and specific legal and factual information research and data compilation, as directed by attorneys.
Drafts legal position statements for attorney review pertaining to various specific policies, operational practices, and/or transactions.
Compiles, reviews, and organizes evidence and other information for internal hearings, and meetings, as appropriate.
Drafts and reviews contracts, including performing intitial review of contracts and settlement agreements, to be entered into by the institution.
Drafts routine pleadings, statements, affidavits, and/or other legal documentation, as appropriate, at the specific direction of attorneys.
Represents the organization on internal committees, task forces, and other official meetings.
May provide routine paralegal assistance to outside counsel and/or other administrative agencies involved in University litigation, administrative, and/or compliance matters.
May supervise and/or lead lower graded staff and/or student employees.
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
High school diploma or GED; at least 7 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
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
Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Ability to create, compose, and edit written materials.
Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
Ability to gather and organize legal evidence.
Knowledge of legal contract, agreement and settlement procedures and documentation.
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.
Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) preparation of routine/standard legal opinions and position statements for attorney review; b) independent preparation of standard contracts and settlement agreements for review of attorneys; c) drafting of standard pleadings, discovery responses, and affidavits for review by attorneys; d) direct interaction with other university departments on legal matters.
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.
