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 counsel in one or more legal specialty areas to institution's organizational units; performs complex legal work involving research, policy review, compliance with legal requirements, review of contracts, acquisition and sale of properties, employment, clinical affairs, and conduct or oversight of litigation.
Duties and Responsibilities
Anticipates and identifies legal issues and counsels management in order to develop legal strategies and solutions, often in situations of great risk or significance and with limited time for assessing alternatives.
Drafts, reviews, and approves policies and procedures, regulations, bylaws, and other documents within legal specialty areas.
Researches and analyzes laws and regulations; educates and trains University community about legal issues.
Conducts and supervises 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.
Coordinates legal services to departments and divisions within areas of legal specialty.
Represents University management in administrative hearings; represents the University and its officials in litigation and/or oversees such representation.
Negotiates settlements involving legal issues or transactions on behalf of the University in conjunction with other University officials.
Supervises support staff, paralegals, more junior attorneys, and/or outside counsel on a project basis.
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 L.L.B; at least 5 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified. Certifications/License: 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
Knowledge of contract documents and specifications.
Ability to develop and deliver presentations.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Ability to create, compose and edit legal opinions and other written materials.
Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
Organizing and coordinating skills.
Ability to represent University officials in litigation or administrative proceedings.
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 of process requirements of administrative hearings and litigation.
Negotiating skills.
Knowledge of legal documentation procedures and requirements.
Ability to develop and implement legal strategies and solutions.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Position requires: a) independent provision of professional legal counsel on complex legal issues; b) performance and coordination of complex legal research; c) preparation, delivery, and review of complex written and verbal legal opinions; d) anticipation and identification of legal problems arising from institutional activities and independent interaction with officials in problem resolution; e) development of legal specialization in one or more areas of relevance to the institution; f) supervision of junior attorneys, outside counsel, paralegals, and/or support staff on a project basis.
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.
