Trial Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

TRIAL ATTORNEY

Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office
Las Cruces, New Mexico

Position Type: Full-Time | Exempt | At-Will
Salary: $75,945 – $94,932 Annually

Prosecutorial Career Opportunity

The Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office is seeking a skilled and motivated attorney to join our team as a Trial Attorney.

This is an excellent opportunity for a legal professional committed to public service who is ready to develop advanced courtroom experience, exercise meaningful prosecutorial responsibility, and handle felony cases that directly affect public safety and the administration of justice in Doña Ana County.

Trial Attorneys manage criminal cases under the guidance of experienced prosecutors and may handle matters involving property crimes, armed robbery, drug trafficking, probation violations, juvenile offenses, and other felony prosecutions. The position also provides opportunities to assist trial teams, work with law enforcement agencies, conduct legal research, participate in community outreach, and help guide less-experienced attorneys as appropriate.

Why Consider the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office?

This position offers attorneys the opportunity to:

• Develop substantial felony prosecution and courtroom experience.
• Handle cases from charging review through resolution or trial.
• Exercise prosecutorial judgment and discretion within established guidelines.
• Assist with complex criminal trials and significant prosecutions.
• Work closely with experienced prosecutors, investigators, victim advocates, and law enforcement partners.
• Participate in crime-scene response, community outreach, boards, and task forces when assigned.
• Build the experience necessary for continued advancement within the prosecution profession.
• Make a meaningful contribution to public safety and justice in southern New Mexico.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants must possess:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in the State of New Mexico.
• At least two years of experience as a practicing attorney or one year of experience as a prosecuting attorney.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference may be given to candidates with:

• Two or more years of prosecutorial experience.
• Experience handling criminal cases or felony matters.
• Demonstrated courtroom and trial advocacy skills.
• Knowledge of criminal procedure, evidentiary rules, and charging practices.
• Experience working collaboratively with law enforcement and other criminal justice agencies.

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Effective courtroom advocacy and litigation skills.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical abilities.
• Sound judgment and the ability to exercise prosecutorial discretion.
• The ability to manage an assigned caseload and work independently within established guidelines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• A commitment to professionalism, ethical prosecution, justice, and public service.

Make an Impact

This position offers an opportunity to build a meaningful prosecution career while gaining hands-on experience in felony litigation and serving victims, families, and the broader community.

If you are an attorney seeking challenging courtroom work, increasing responsibility, professional development, and the opportunity to serve the citizens of southern New Mexico, we encourage you to apply.

Posting Extended: Applications will be accepted until close of business September 30, 2026.

The Third Judicial District Attorney's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to attracting and retaining highly qualified professionals dedicated to public service.