Assistant Attorney General II, Sexually Violent Predators - Civil Commitment

DHRM•Richmond, VA

17d•Hybrid

About The Position

The successful candidate will represent the Commonwealth in civil proceedings involving individuals who have been convicted of sexually violent offenses and are being considered for, or are currently subject to, civil commitment under Virginia law. The litigation focuses primarily on psychological diagnoses, sexual-offense risk assessment, and treatment progress. Attorneys work regularly with forensic psychologists and other professionals and present and challenge expert testimony on these issues. Attorneys in the Section manage their own cases and are responsible for preparing pleadings, conducting discovery, analyzing psychological evaluations and other evidence, performing legal research, preparing and examining witnesses, negotiating with opposing counsel, and litigating hearings and bench and jury trials in Virginia circuit courts. Attorneys may also have opportunities to brief and argue cases before the Court of Appeals of Virginia and the Supreme Court of Virginia. The position involves some travel throughout Virginia, with significant flexibility in managing court schedules and travel obligations. Prior experience with sexually violent predator proceedings, forensic psychology, or risk assessment is not required. Attorneys joining the Section receive training in these areas and become part of a small, close-knit team of experienced attorneys who work closely with forensic mental health experts and partner agencies. This position may be based in either the Richmond or Fairfax office of the Virginia Office of the Attorney General.

Requirements

Graduated from an accredited law school
Admitted to the Virginia State Bar
At least three years of litigation experience
Strong written and oral advocacy skills
Ability to independently manage a litigation caseload
Sound judgment
Intellectual curiosity
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Nice To Haves

Prior experience with sexually violent predator proceedings
Prior experience with forensic psychology
Prior experience with risk assessment
Familiarity with the criminal justice system
Experience with expert witnesses or technical evidence

Responsibilities

Represent the Commonwealth in civil proceedings involving individuals convicted of sexually violent offenses being considered for or subject to civil commitment.
Focus litigation on psychological diagnoses, sexual-offense risk assessment, and treatment progress.
Work with forensic psychologists and other professionals to present and challenge expert testimony.
Manage own cases, including preparing pleadings, conducting discovery, analyzing psychological evaluations and evidence, performing legal research, preparing and examining witnesses, negotiating with opposing counsel, and litigating hearings and trials.
Potentially brief and argue cases before the Court of Appeals of Virginia and the Supreme Court of Virginia.