Debt Defense Litigation Attorney

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New Mexico.

📋 Description

• Oversee an active caseload of consumer debt lawsuits from the initial appearance to resolution or trial.

• Assess each case and formulate a case-specific defense and resolution strategy.

• Manage cases from Notice of Appearance and Answer through settlement, dismissal, summary judgment, mediation, or trial.

• Identify potential defenses related to procedure, evidence, standing, documentation, and other factors.

• Maintain proactive timelines for cases and advance matters towards resolution.

• Balance legal strategies with client objectives, financial situations, risks, and practical constraints.

• Draft and respond to written discovery requests.

• Analyze documents produced by plaintiffs to identify evidentiary or substantive weaknesses.

• Prepare and present motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, motions to compel, and other dispositive and non-dispositive motions.

• Address discovery disputes and conduct related hearings.

• Prepare for and conduct or defend depositions as appropriate.

• Attend Zoom and remote hearings across New Mexico.

• Participate in in-person proceedings when required.

• Prepare cases for contested hearings and trials.

• Organize evidence, witnesses, exhibits, legal arguments, and trial strategies.

• Advocate for clients in front of judges and opposing counsel.

• Assess settlement opportunities and negotiate strategically with opposing counsel.

• Advise clients on litigation risks, settlement options, and subsequent steps.

• Resolve cases through dismissal, settlement, mediation, arbitration, judgment, or trial.

• Maintain clear and consistent communication with clients, explaining litigation strategies and options.

• Collaborate closely with legal assistants, paralegals, and other attorneys.

• Provide direction and guidance regarding case strategies and litigation priorities.

• Support the development of team members and enhance consistency across the practice.

• Improve legal strategies, templates, workflows, and internal processes.

• Utilize legal technology, AI, and automation tools.

• Identify recurring patterns across cases and contribute ideas to enhance client experience, case outcomes, and division performance.

⛳️ Requirements

• Active New Mexico Bar license in good standing.

• At least three years of relevant experience in consumer debt litigation.

• Experience must encompass substantive responsibilities for cases, not merely hearing coverage.

• Debt defense experience is highly preferred; significant plaintiff-side consumer debt litigation experience will also be considered.

• Strong working knowledge of consumer debt litigation and relevant case law.

• Comprehensive understanding of the New Mexico Rules of Civil Procedure.

• Experience in drafting and arguing motions.

• Experience managing written discovery and discovery disputes.

• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills.

• Ability to independently assess cases and devise litigation strategies.

• Proficient in managing disputes through settlement, mediation, arbitration, or trial.

• Strong communication skills in client-facing situations.

• Ability to effectively manage an active caseload in a remote setting.

• Bar licenses in multiple jurisdictions are preferred but not mandatory.

🏝️ Benefits

• 401(k) plan with firm matching contributions.

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.

• Paid holidays, including an additional firm-designated holiday.

• Paid vacation, sick leave, and personal time off.

• Half-day Fridays for Division Leads and employees who have been with the firm for more than two years, subject to litigation demands, court deadlines, and client needs.

• Gym membership reimbursement or stipend.

• Opportunities for annual bonuses.

• Support for professional development, including CLEs, training, and leadership growth.

• Fully remote work environment.