Honors Program
Our Honors Program is designed to recruit highly talented candidates who exhibit the values of integrity, excellence, and service. Through the Honors Program, exceptional law school graduates and recently licensed attorneys can gain invaluable experience early in their legals careers, while serving the public interest, promoting the well-being of all New Mexicans, and protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.
We encourage applications from those who are intellectually curious and passionate about public service. We seek candidates who have strong writing skills, have the confidence and ability to ask good and thoughtful questions, are eager to engage, and have a strong academic record (i.e., a strong GPA or a steady improvement of grades during law school).
What Will Participants Do?
Selected applicants will join the NMDOJ for a one-year, full-time position. During the Honors Program, participants will receive real-world experience drafting memoranda, briefs, and pleadings, and will work collaboratively with experienced lawyers in one of our dynamic divisions within Affirmative Litigation, Civil Affairs, Criminal Affairs, and Civil & Criminal Appeals.
Participants will have the opportunity to develop as lawyers by working on exciting and sometimes novel legal matters on behalf of the people of New Mexico. Upon completion of the program, participants may have an opportunity to seek continued employment with our office.
Who is Eligible?
The Honors Program is open to law students graduating by Spring 2024, recent law school graduates, or recently licensed attorneys.
Selected candidates must pass the New Mexico Bar exam or, if licensed in another state, obtain a Public Employee Limited License through the New Mexico State Bar under Rule 15-304 NMRA. Accordingly, unlicensed applicants should plan to take the July 2024 Bar exam.
How To Apply?
This year’s application deadline is May 31, 2024. The NMDOJ’s Honors Program asks for a one-year commitment, beginning in September 2024. Use the button below to submit an application.
If you have any questions regarding the Honors Program, please contact us.
