ATTORNEY I

State of Arkansas•Fayetteville, AR

14d•$71,027 - $105,120

About The Position

The OCC Litigation Attorney serves as litigation counsel for various divisions, offices, and programs of the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS). The role provides legal advice and represents and counsels DHS, its divisions, offices, and personnel in their official and individual capacities in non-jury state and federal court litigation, including appeals. Attorney I is described as an entry-level state-government legal position providing research, analysis, and support on legal matters affecting state agencies. The attorney drafts legal documents, assists with litigation, interprets laws and regulations, and advises agency personnel. The position requires a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and an Arkansas attorney license. Other job-related education or experience may substitute for some or all basic requirements, subject to approval by the Qualifications Review Committee, but not for licensure or certification requirements.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Licensed as an attorney in the State of Arkansas.
Fundamental knowledge of Arkansas state laws, administrative procedures, and legal principles.
Strong legal research and writing abilities.
Familiarity with court procedures, government regulations, and statutory interpretation.
Proficiency with legal research tools such as Westlaw and LexisNexis and office software such as Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to evaluate complex legal issues and present well-reasoned conclusions.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Precision in drafting legal documents and reviewing laws for compliance.
Ability to assess legal risks and recommend effective solutions.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a fast-paced legal environment.
Other job-related education or experience may be substituted for all or part of the basic requirements upon Qualifications Review Committee approval, except for certification or licensure requirements.

Responsibilities

Provide legal advice to DHS and its offices and programs.
Represent and counsel DHS, its divisions, offices, and personnel in their official and individual capacities in non-jury state and federal court litigation, including appeals.
Research statutes, case law, administrative codes, and policies relevant to state operations.
Analyze and interpret laws, regulations, and legal precedents and provide recommendations for agency decision-making.
Identify legal risks and advise on appropriate courses of action.
Draft legal memoranda, contracts, opinions, and administrative rules under supervision.
Assist in preparing pleadings, motions, and other court-related documents.
Review proposed legislation and policies for legal sufficiency and compliance with state laws.
Support agency attorneys in case preparation, depositions, and administrative hearings.
Gather and organize evidence, affidavits, and legal arguments for hearings and trials.
Monitor court rulings and regulatory changes affecting agency policies and procedures.
Provide legal guidance to agency staff on compliance with state and federal laws.
Review agency procedures, contracts, and policies for legal soundness.
Participate in training sessions to educate employees on legal requirements and best practices.