Staff Attorney – Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC)

Albuquerque, NM

New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) provides civil legal services to low-income New Mexicans to promote family and economic stability, helping clients access food, shelter, security, and to preserve their unique cultural heritages. NMLA has locations throughout the state, including Santa Ana Pueblo, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Gallup, Roswell, Silver City, and Taos.

The LITC Staff Attorney will be responsible for the successful completion and coordination of income tax controversy casework, including litigation. All cases involve federal or New Mexico income tax, including IRS audits, IRS and NMTRD administrative appeals, and U.S. Tax Court cases. Typical issues: child-based tax credits, offers in compromise, innocent spouse, tax-related identity theft and cancellation of debt income. Almost every case requires extensive representation. Based in Albuquerque, we serve all of New Mexico and are the largest and oldest LITC in the state.

The Staff Attorney will provide services through a combination of direct representation, legal advocacy, and community engagement. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide legal advice, brief services, and full representation to clients in legal matters.
• Interview clients, assess legal issues, and develop case strategies aligned with applicable law and program priorities.
• Prepare legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and other filings.
• Represent clients in court hearings, administrative proceedings, and appeals as needed.
• Conduct legal research, factual investigation, and discovery to support case development.
• Maintain accurate and timely case files and documentation in accordance with program requirements.
• Manage an active caseload, prioritizing urgent matters and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, and external partners, including co-counsel and community organizations.
• Conduct community outreach and legal education to clients, service providers, and community groups.
• Participate in program initiatives, special projects, and advocacy efforts that support low-income communities.
• Participation in the ABA LITC Listserv is expected, as well as frequent monitoring of administrative, statutory and case law tax developments.
• Other duties as assigned.

NMLA offers a very collaborative environment and support for less experienced attorneys. NMLA handles a wide range of creative, challenging and complex work. We are looking for highly motivated candidates who are passionate about and strongly committed to helping NMLA better serve our client communities.

Required Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
• Licensed to practice law in New Mexico, or the ability to become licensed within 6 months of hire.
• Admission to practice before the U.S. Tax Court, if not at hire then soon after.
• Ability to manage a caseload and handle multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills and sound legal judgment.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
• Proficiency with computer technology, including remote communication tools, shared online workspaces, and case management systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed.
• Travel to the annual LITC conference in Washington, D.C.
• Travel to occasional tax outreach and education events.

Preferred Qualifications

• Income tax course work and/or tax practice experience.
• Experience working at a civil legal services provider.
• Experience working with low-income or underserved populations.
• Proficiency in Spanish.

This position is part of a collective bargaining agreement negotiated by the union. Pay is determined by years of experience and set by a union scale outlined in the CBA (click here to view the salary scale).

Company Benefits:

• 100% employer-paid BCBS medical, plus dental and vision for employees
• Generous employer contributions toward dependent coverage
• Paid time off includes annual leave (starting at 3 weeks/year), 6 days personal time, 15 holidays, sick leave, and more
• Sabbatical program eligibility
• Hybrid work schedule (3 days in office, 2 days remote each week).
• Full-time 37.5-hour work week
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer contributions and matching
• Meaningful mission-driven work serving New Mexico communities
• Click here for more information

Salary: $63,376.18 - $100,547.39 for licensed attorneys, DOE.

Application Deadline: Until filled. Resumes reviewed on a rolling basis.

Applicants must submit a current resume, three references, and a cover letter that explains your interest in this position and the mission of NMLA. Your application will not be considered unless we receive all of these documents. To apply, visit:

Applicants will be subject to a background check. Please do not let this deter you from applying. NMLA is committed to a strong workforce and recognizes that persons with marks on their record may still be able to perform admirably.

NMLA is an EEO Employer.