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 legal consultation, policy analysis, and training to local, state, and federal agencies, the institution, and the community. Conducts research and studies to provide policy recommendations as well as specific proposals relating to implementation of policy; identifies and investigates public law issues; supervises and coordinates projects within area of expertise.
Duties and Responsibilities
Performs high-level research and analysis in numerous areas of law and policy, often involving novel and complex issues.
Drafts and edits a wide variety of documents, such as legal memoranda, state legislation, administrative agency regulations, policy manuals, city charters, court rules, handbooks, and newsletters.
Advises government officials and task forces regarding the policy implications of proposed and existing regulations, policies, and practices.
Designs and delivers judicial, state, and public education and training on legal issues; develops training materials and other resource materials, as needed.
Prepares proposals, develops budgets, negotiates contracts, plans projects, obtains funding, determines staffing needs, and otherwise assists in program development.
Assumes responsibility for the technical and administrative aspects of contracts and grants, including responsibility for contract performance, reporting, and evaluation.
Keeps abreast of issues and developments in legal specialty areas by reading journals, attending professional conferences, and conferring with colleagues nationwide.
May lead, guide, and train staff/student employees, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; may participate in the recruitment of volunteers, as appropriate to the area of operation.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Job Requirements
J.D. or LL.B; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Certification/Licensure
Member of NM State Bar, or member of State Bar of another state or District of Columbia and in possession of a Public Employee Limited License issued by the NM Supreme Court.
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.
Skill in budget preparation and fiscal management.
Ability to write reports containing technical information.
Ability to conduct complex legal research.
Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
Knowledge of contracts and grants preparation and management.
Ability to identify and secure alternative funding/revenue sources.
Ability to draft legal documents, such as pleadings, legal responses, affidavits, position statements and briefs.
Knowledge of legal implications of policies and practices.
Knowledge of current and developing legal issues and trends in area of expertise.
Knowledge and understanding of institutional policies and procedures and the regulatory environment within which they operate.
Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) Performing high-level research and analysis in numerous areas of law and policy; b) advising government officials/task forces regarding policy implications of proposed regulations, policies and practices; c) preparing proposals, negotiating contracts, developing budgets and planning projects; d) leading/guiding staff, interns, and/or volunteers performing related work; and e) supervising and coordinateng projects within area of expertise.
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.
