Are you pursing a law degree? The TopSchoolsintheUSA.com has generated the latest ranking of best law schools in New Mexico that provides Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR), Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD). You can use the following list to pick a school that fits your needs. These law schools in New Mexico are ranked based on the student reviews, alumni surveys, assessment of peer institutions, and official data reported by each law college. In addition, we also provide average LSAT scores, GPA and acceptance rates for each of these law schools in New Mexico.
Top ABA-Approved Law Schools in New Mexico
| National Ranking | Best Law Programs |
| 73 | University of New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM) Acceptance rate: 25.7% LSAT scores (25th-75th percentile): 152-161 GPA (25th-75th percentile): 3.05-3.69 Tuition & Fees: In-state, full-time: $14,532 per year, Out-of-state, full-time: $32,661 per year Enrollment (full-time): 362 Graduates known to be employed nine months after graduation: 91.3%
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All Law Schools in New Mexico
New Mexico is home to one law school, The University of New Mexico School of Law (UNM Law), which provides a comprehensive legal education with a focus on practical training, public service, and advocacy. UNM Law is recognized for its intimate learning environment, its nationally ranked clinical programs, and its commitment to serving the diverse communities of New Mexico.
1. University of New Mexico School of Law
Overview
The University of New Mexico School of Law, located in Albuquerque, is the only law school in the state and has been an integral part of New Mexico’s legal community since its founding in 1947. UNM Law is known for its emphasis on hands-on legal training through its nationally ranked clinical programs, as well as its focus on public interest law, Native American law, and natural resources law. The law school offers small class sizes, allowing for close interaction between students and faculty, which creates a supportive learning environment.
The school’s strong connections to the legal community in New Mexico make it a popular choice for students looking to work in the state, particularly in public service, advocacy, and government. UNM Law graduates often go on to hold key positions in the state’s legal system, including judgeships, public defense, and state government roles.
Degree Programs
UNM Law offers a range of degree programs that cater to different career goals, particularly those with an interest in serving the diverse communities of New Mexico.
- Juris Doctor (J.D.): The traditional three-year program offers a comprehensive legal education that prepares students for the bar exam and practice in a variety of legal fields. Students at UNM Law have the opportunity to specialize in key areas such as:
- Native American Law
- Environmental and Natural Resources Law
- Criminal Law
- Public Interest Law
- Dual Degree Programs:
- J.D./M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration): This program is designed for students interested in combining legal education with public administration skills, preparing them for leadership roles in government, non-profit organizations, or public policy.
- J.D./M.B.A. (Master of Business Administration): This dual degree program allows students to earn both a J.D. and an M.B.A., making it ideal for those pursuing careers in corporate law, business, or entrepreneurial ventures.
- Clinical Programs: One of UNM Law’s standout features is its nationally recognized clinical programs. Students in their third year are required to participate in clinical courses that allow them to represent real clients under the supervision of licensed attorneys. Some of the key clinical programs include:
- Southwest Indian Law Clinic: Focuses on providing legal services to Native American communities, with an emphasis on federal Indian law and tribal law.
- Natural Resources and Environmental Law Clinic: Addresses legal issues related to environmental protection, water rights, and public land use in the Southwest.
- Business and Tax Clinic: Provides legal assistance to small businesses and low-income taxpayers, allowing students to gain practical experience in business law and tax law.
- Community Lawyering Clinic: Offers students the opportunity to work on civil legal matters, such as family law, landlord-tenant disputes, and public benefits cases.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of New Mexico School of Law is competitive, but the school is known for its commitment to admitting a diverse class of students with strong academic potential and a dedication to public service. UNM Law seeks well-rounded applicants who demonstrate leadership qualities, a commitment to community involvement, and a passion for law.
- Average LSAT Score: 153
- Average GPA: 3.4
- Application Components:
- LSAC Application: All applicants must apply through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
- Personal Statement: Applicants are required to submit a personal statement that explains their interest in law, why they wish to attend UNM Law, and their career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two to three letters of recommendation are typically required, with preference given to recommendations from professors or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s academic and leadership abilities.
- LSAT Score: The LSAT is a critical component of the application. While the average score for admitted students is around 153, the admissions process at UNM Law is holistic and takes other factors into account.
- Resume: Applicants are encouraged to submit a resume that highlights their academic achievements, work experience, extracurricular activities, and community service.
- Optional Diversity Statement: UNM Law values diversity and welcomes applicants to submit a diversity statement that outlines how their unique background or experiences will contribute to the school’s community.
Starting Salaries
Graduates of the University of New Mexico School of Law are well-prepared for a variety of legal careers, particularly in New Mexico and the Southwest region. The school’s strong clinical programs and connections to the state’s legal community provide students with numerous opportunities for hands-on learning, which translates into strong job prospects upon graduation.
- Private Sector: $70,000 – $95,000
- Graduates who pursue careers in law firms, particularly in smaller or mid-sized firms in New Mexico, typically earn starting salaries in the range of $70,000 to $95,000. Those entering larger firms or specialized areas such as energy law, environmental law, or intellectual property law may command higher starting salaries, particularly if they work in larger markets such as Albuquerque or nearby states like Colorado or Arizona.
- Public Sector: $55,000 – $75,000
- A significant number of UNM Law graduates pursue careers in public service, including roles as public defenders, prosecutors, or attorneys in state and local government. Starting salaries for these positions typically range from $55,000 to $75,000, depending on the specific role and location.
- Judicial Clerkships: $50,000 – $65,000
- Many graduates secure judicial clerkships with state or federal judges, where they gain valuable experience in legal research, writing, and courtroom procedures. Starting salaries for judicial clerks generally range from $50,000 to $65,000, depending on the level of court and the location of the clerkship.
- Non-Profit Organizations and Public Interest Law: $50,000 – $65,000
- Graduates who work in non-profit organizations, legal aid, or public interest law often start with salaries in the range of $50,000 to $65,000. While these roles may offer lower starting salaries compared to private sector jobs, they provide opportunities for meaningful work in areas such as civil rights, environmental advocacy, and legal services for underserved communities.
Practical Learning Opportunities at UNM Law
Clinical Programs
UNM Law’s clinical programs are a central part of the curriculum and provide students with hands-on legal experience while serving the community. These programs are an integral part of the third-year curriculum and allow students to represent real clients, providing them with valuable experience in advocacy, negotiation, and litigation. Some of the standout clinical programs include:
- Southwest Indian Law Clinic: This clinic focuses on representing Native American individuals and tribes in legal matters, providing students with an opportunity to engage with federal Indian law, tribal law, and human rights issues.
- Natural Resources and Environmental Law Clinic: Students in this clinic work on environmental law cases related to water rights, land use, and environmental protection in the Southwest. This clinic provides practical experience in a growing area of law, especially given the natural resources issues faced by the region.
- Business and Tax Clinic: The clinic serves small businesses and low-income individuals with legal needs related to taxes and business transactions. Students gain experience in transactional law, tax disputes, and representing clients in administrative hearings.
- Community Lawyering Clinic: Students represent low-income clients in civil matters, such as family law, housing, and public benefits. This clinic offers a broad range of legal experiences, from client counseling to courtroom representation.
Externship Opportunities
In addition to its clinical programs, UNM Law offers a robust externship program that provides students with opportunities to work in various legal settings. Externships are available with:
- Judges: Students can work as externs for judges in state or federal courts, assisting with legal research, drafting opinions, and observing courtroom proceedings. Judicial externships provide invaluable insight into the judicial process and are often a stepping stone to securing post-graduate clerkships.
- Government Agencies: Externships with government agencies, such as the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, or local district attorneys’ offices, provide students with experience in regulatory and criminal law. These externships are particularly valuable for students interested in careers in public service or government.
- Non-Profit Organizations: Students have the opportunity to work with non-profit organizations focused on civil rights, environmental protection, and legal services for low-income individuals. These externships allow students to gain experience in public interest law while making a meaningful impact on their communities.
Career Support and Alumni Network
Career Services at UNM Law
UNM Law provides strong career support for its students through the Office of Career Services. The office offers a wide range of resources to help students prepare for their legal careers, including:
- Job Search Assistance: Career counselors work with students to develop job search strategies, review resumes and cover letters, and prepare for interviews.
- On-Campus Interviews: UNM Law hosts on-campus interviews with law firms, government agencies, and public interest organizations, giving students the opportunity to connect with potential employers.
- Networking Events: The law school regularly hosts networking events, including career fairs, panel discussions, and receptions, where students can meet alumni and local legal professionals.
Alumni Network
The University of New Mexico School of Law has a strong and supportive alumni network, particularly in New Mexico and the Southwest. Many graduates remain in the region to practice law, and the school’s alumni are actively involved in mentoring current students and helping them navigate their legal careers. The law school’s alumni network is a valuable resource for students seeking internships, job opportunities, and professional guidance.
Commitment to Public Service and Diversity
One of the hallmarks of the University of New Mexico School of Law is its strong commitment to public service and diversity. The law school encourages students to engage in pro bono work and community service, providing opportunities for students to give back to their communities while gaining practical legal experience.
Through its clinics, externships, and public interest programming, UNM Law fosters a culture of service that prepares graduates to advocate for justice and equality, particularly in underserved communities. This commitment to public service aligns with the school’s broader mission to provide access to justice for all individuals, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.