Administrative Law Judge II, DHHS
About The Position
An Administrative Law Judge II (ALJ II) conducts administrative hearings on behalf of the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. While these proceedings follow informal administrative processes, they often involve highly complex evidentiary and regulatory issues requiring sophisticated legal analysis. This position primarily focuses on cases within the Division of Child and Family Services, but the ALJ II will also handle disputes across other programs as needed, including the Division of Licensing and Background Checks, Aging and Adult Services, Services for People with Disabilities, the Office of Recovery Services, the Center for Medical Cannabis, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- At least three (3) years of experience actively practicing law.
- Compliance with the Utah Supreme Court Rules of Professional Practice, Rule 4-802 (Authorization to Practice Law).
- Ability to read, interpret, and logically apply complex laws, administrative regulations, appellate rules, policies, and procedural frameworks to isolated sets of facts.
- Skill in evaluating multi-layered evidentiary information against established statutory standards to draw sound, legally defensible conclusions.
- Ability to communicate information, findings of fact, and conclusions of law clearly and concisely in writing.
- Ability to speak clearly, concisely, and effectively before groups, counsel, and litigants; strong active listening skills to digest complex arguments without inappropriate interruption.
- Demonstrated capability to maintain deep concentration on intricate legal tasks over extended periods without distraction.
- Familiarity with administrative court procedures, case management software, word processing systems, and file/record management systems.
Nice To Haves
- Current active membership and in good standing with the Utah State Bar.
- Prior work experience as an Administrative Law Judge, litigator, or judicial law clerk.
- Knowledge and specialized experience in Human Services Programs, Medicaid, or Juvenile Court systems.
Responsibilities
- Conduct informal hearings and possibly formal hearings, status conferences, and pre-hearing conferences via video, telephone, and in-person.
- Issue subpoenas, hold pre-hearing conferences, and rule on motions or other legal issues prior to the hearing.
- Resolve procedural issues and rule on objections to evidence or questions raised by counsel or pro se litigants during proceedings.
- Explain applicable procedures, statutory rules, and evidentiary parameters to litigants, attorneys, and unrepresented parties.
- Rule on the admissibility of evidence, evaluate evidence, and determine witness credibility.
- Question witnesses when necessary to develop a complete and impartial administrative record.
- Perform independent legal research, consider all presented testimony, make final judgments, and issue clear written decisions in a timely manner.
- Maintain accurate case files, records, and exhibits.
- Assist with alternative office duties and special projects as needed by the Director of the Office of Administrative Hearings.
Benefits
- Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
- Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
- Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
- Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
