Public Defender

Application Instructions:

• Go to www.lagunapueblo-nsn.gov and click on Employment Opportunities for application instructions and application form. Read instructions prior to completing application form; incomplete applications will not be considered. Resumes are encouraged but not in lieu of a complete application form.
• All hand delivered documents must be received by the Human Resources Office no later than 4:30 pm (MDT) on the closing date. All electronically mailed documents must be received by the Human Resources Office no later than 11:59pm (MDT) on the closing date.
• Application packets may be submitted by one of the following methods:
• 1. E-mail to hr@pol-nsn.gov;
• 2. Mail to Pueblo of Laguna Human Resources; P.O. Box 194; Laguna, NM 87026
• 3. Deliver to the Human Resources Office, 23 Rio San Jose Rd; Laguna, NM 87026
• 4. Fax to (505) 552-9675

For more information, contact Pueblo of Laguna HR, at (505) 552-5252 or by e-mail at the above address.

LAGUNA TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE APPLIES

POSITION: Public Defender

OPENING DATE: January 30, 2026

CLOSING DATE: February 6, 2026

DEPARTMENT: Government Affairs Office

SALARY RANGE: E - 17; $78,814 - $131,357

Position Summary:

Under administrative direction of the Government Affairs Director, the Public Defender represents indigent clients accused of violating ordinances of the Pueblo of Laguna. Ensures efficient and effective legal advocacy. Consistently applies the Pueblo’s Core Values in support of Workforce Excellence. Maintains confidentiality of all privileged information.

This list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only of the tasks performed by this position and is not all-inclusive.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Represents indigent individuals in the Pueblo Court accused of violating the Pueblo’s ordinances.
• Performs necessary tasks to provide competent advocacy including arrangements for setting of bail and posting of bond, pretrial conferences, representation in court appearances, and post-trial representation.
• Ensures that the civil rights of clients charged with violations of the Pueblo’s codes and/or ordinances are competently protected.
• Utilizes a plea bargain process that promotes the interests of the accused. Ensures a balanced criminal justice system.
• Maintains necessary contact with clients to apprise of court hearings, case developments, and client obligations.
• Interviews clients, gathers evidence, and analyzes pertinent information to formulate and prepare for legal representation.
• Conducts research, interviews clients and witnesses, and develops strategy, arguments and testimony in preparation for presentation of case and in preparation for hearings and/or trial.
• Prepares witnesses for depositions and trial.
• Prepares pleadings, motions, legal briefs, orders, and appellate documents.
• Works with the Court Prosecutor, Probation Officers, other relevant personnel or entities to determine/negotiate appropriate recommendations for case resolution, sentences, and referrals to appropriate services.
• Reviews codes and/or ordinances; recommends amendments to the GAO Director for action by Pueblo Legislative Committees.
• Maintains appropriate documentation as required. Ensures the confidentiality of client information.
• Develops and maintains solid relationships with entities of common interest, including the Federal Public Defender Office, the New Mexico Public Defender Department, and other internal and external programs.
• Assists GAO Director in the development and management of annual budget, including operational plans and objectives.
• Assists GAO Director in management of relevant grants, contracts, and/or other funding sources; develops required narrative and statistical reports.
• Researches additional funding opportunities and available grant monies for continuation and expansion of program services.
• Evaluates and assesses program processes and procedures; offers/recommends changes; ensures the implementation of revisions.
• Provides direct oversight and supervision to staff.
• Evaluates staff and contractor performance in a timely manner. Promotes self-responsibility and accountability.
• Maintains professional licensure and gains technical knowledge by conducting research, reviewing case histories and rulings, attending relevant training and workshops, and establishing networks with like programs.
• Assists, the Pueblo’s Emergency Management Program and its response to public emergency incidents.
• Complies with standards of conduct applicable to licensure and profession.
• Contributes to a team effort and accomplishes related results as required.
• Performs other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school required.
• Two (2) or more years work experience in the practice of criminal law required.
• Member in good standing with the New Mexico State Bar or licensed in any other state and by New Mexico within one (1) year of hiring required.
• FEMA/ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 Certifications preferred; must obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Fluency in the Laguna language preferred.

Pay: $78,814.00 - $131,357.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person