Associate Counsel
About The Position
Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. The Office of Inspector General combats fraud, waste, and abuse in publicly funded state Health and Human Services programs. The OIG’s Chief Counsel Division seeks a motivated, talented attorney to join the Litigation section. The Associate Counsel (Attorney II) is responsible for a case load of 15-20 moderately complex civil administrative enforcement cases. The attorney will assist with the development of audits and investigations. Once a case moves into the litigation phase, the attorney will be responsible for all aspects of preparing and litigating the case. These activities include, but are not limited to development of evidence through contact with witnesses and review of documents and policies, rules, regulations, and statutes and preparation of pleadings, written discovery, motions, trial briefs, exhibits, and necessary orders. The attorney will take and defend depositions and examinations under oath and may assume second chair trial responsibilities. The trial phase may include mediation and/or informal resolution conferences. The attorney will be required to keep management advised of all aspects of the case.
Requirements
- Knowledge of trial and/or administrative hearings procedures
- Knowledge of the Texas Administrative Procedure Act
- Knowledge of federal and state court rules of procedure and evidence
- Knowledge of discovery rules and procedures
- Knowledge of eDiscovery principles, processes, and requirements
- Skill in legal research, writing, and analysis
- Skill in handling multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines
- Skill in exercising sound judgment and effective decision making
- Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions
- Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with client representatives, other government employees, and stakeholder groups.
- Skill in performing research using resources including, but not limited to Westlaw, LexisNexis, PACER, administrative agency and court case management systems, and legislative reference sources
- Skill in use of computer software applications including, but not limited to Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Teams), Adobe Acrobat Pro, and database programs
- Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences both orally and in writing
- Ability to analyze complex factual and legal issues related to a wide variety of federal and state laws
- Ability to organize and manage multiple tasks of varying priorities, make efficient use of time and resources, and meet deadlines
- Ability to utilize legal technology platforms, eDiscovery tools, and document management systems
- Ability to use common office technology including, but not limited to computers, printers, scanners, copiers; videoconferencing tools; audio and visual presentation equipment
- Ability to maintain effective and collegial relations with all levels of management, staff, and the public
- Licensed in good standing with the State Bar of Texas
- Graduation from a law school approved by the Supreme Court of Texas with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
Nice To Haves
- One to three years of legal experience preferred, including internships, judicial clerkships, or prior litigation or advisory experience
- Participation in mock trial, moot court, or similar law school advocacy programs
Responsibilities
- Case evaluation, assessment, and preparation for litigation while keeping the options open to explore and negotiate settlement.
- Litigate matters before the State Office of Administrative Hearings or the Health and Human Services Appeals Division, including drafting legal memoranda, motions, briefs, pleadings, and written discovery; preparing exhibits; witness preparation; and participation in hearings.
- Resolve matters by agreement via informal resolution meetings (IRMs) or mediation.
- Assist with the development of audits and investigations.
- General legal research.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees
- A defined benefit pension plan
- Generous time off benefits
- Numerous opportunities for career advancement
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
