Trial Attorney

Purpose:
This position provides for the prosecution of criminal and non-criminal cases.

Supervision:
Incumbent receives general supervision from the assigned supervisor. Incumbent may supervise assigned support staff in doing their day-to-day work.

Examples of Work Performed:
Incumbent handles felony cases under supervision, for example adult and juvenile burglaries, property crimes, armed robberies, drug trafficking, mental commitments, probation violations; takes rotation as on-call attorney; performs legal research for other attorneys; assists in trial teams; performs non-prosecution duties as assigned; may advise/assist entry level attorneys at the discretion of the district attorney; works with law enforcement at crime scenes; performs non-prosecution duties such as community outreach; participates on boards and task forces and other groups assigned; performs other related job duties under possible supervision.

Distinguishing Characteristics:
This is the second level position of the attorney series. The incumbent is expected to become fully effective in this position.

Working Conditions:
Work is performed in office, courtroom, and community environments. Physical effort and travel may be required. Incumbent may be required to work under stressful situations and/or conditions. Incumbent may be required to go to crime scenes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Position requires advanced knowledge and skills in the areas of criminal prosecution; rules of evidence and rules of criminal procedure; public relations; organization; basic computer skills including working knowledge of office systems; effective trial skills; ability to draft legal documents; ability to work effectively with other criminal justice agencies; mentor and guide less experienced attorneys; ability to communicate effectively; ability to research/analyze information and situations. Works independently and makes decisions within guidelines. Decisions made include approving/disapproving charges. Charging decisions are made with consultation of higher-level attorneys for high level and/or profile crimes.

Requirements:
Licensed attorney in New Mexico, plus a minimum of two (2) years as a practicing attorney, or one (1) year as a prosecuting attorney.

Preferred Qualifications:
Two (2) or more years as a prosecuting attorney.