Civil Litigation Attorney

A law firm in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is seeking a skilled Civil Litigation Attorney to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in civil defense litigation, with at least 5 years of experience. This role requires excellent case management abilities, strong research and writing skills, and a commitment to delivering high-quality legal services. The attorney will handle a variety of civil litigation cases from inception through trial, providing effective representation for the firm's clients.

Duties:

• Manage a caseload of civil defense litigation cases, including conducting initial case assessments and developing case strategies.
• Draft and file legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to support case strategies and to provide clients with informed legal advice.
• Represent clients in court, including trial appearances, pre-trial motions, hearings, and settlement negotiations.
• Prepare for and conduct depositions, including preparing witnesses and experts for testimony.
• Engage in discovery processes, including drafting and responding to interrogatories, requests for production, and requests for admissions.
• Work closely with clients to develop defense strategies, keep them informed of case developments, and advise them on legal rights and obligations.
• Negotiate settlements on behalf of clients to achieve favorable outcomes.
• Collaborate with other attorneys, paralegals, and legal staff to ensure the effective handling of cases.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of laws, regulations, and legal precedents relevant to civil defense litigation.
• Participate in trial preparation, including drafting trial briefs, jury instructions, and trial exhibits.
• Ensure compliance with all legal standards and regulations.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active law license in good standing in the state of New Mexico.
• Proven civil defense litigation experience, preferably with 5+ years of practice.
• Trial experience, including first-chair or significant trial involvement.
• Strong case management skills, with the ability to handle a caseload independently.
• Exceptional research and writing abilities, with a demonstrated history of producing high-quality legal work.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively advocate for clients.
• Commitment to ethical legal practices and maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other attorneys and legal professionals.

Skills:

• Proficiency in legal research tools, such as Westlaw or LexisNexis.
• Strong negotiation skills, with the ability to achieve favorable settlements.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in all legal documents and communications.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced legal environment.
• Client-focused approach with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain client relationships.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with a performance-based bonus plan.
• Comprehensive benefits package including fully paid employee medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance.
• Co-shared premiums for dependent coverages.
• Access to additional voluntary benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education (CLE).
• Potential for career growth within the firm's civil litigation practice.