ATTORNEY II

State of Arkansas•Little Rock, AR

12d•$85,943 - $127,195

About The Position

The Attorney II is a mid-level legal professional with the Department of Human Services, responsible for providing legal counsel, conducting legal research, drafting documents, and representing the agency in administrative and judicial proceedings. The role requires independent decision-making, case management, and complex legal analysis. A trial attorney conducts research, prepares legal documents, and provides legal advice and opinions to the agency. The attorney spends significant time in court conducting hearings and preparing orders and pleadings, as well as interviewing and advising agency clients. The attorney independently directs and conducts trials and advises on strategies and tactics relating to child welfare and/or adult protective services cases. The position also provides legal guidance to state agencies, boards, and commissions; reviews proposed legislation, rules, and policies; prepares and presents cases; assists with claims on behalf of the state; and advises on compliance and legal risks. The role is based in Pulaski County, Arkansas.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate or formal education equivalent of a law degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed to practice law and admitted to the Arkansas State Bar in accordance with ACA 16-22-201.
The posting lists two years of experience as an attorney in the minimum qualifications and three years of experience practicing law in the initial requirements section.
Strong understanding of Arkansas state laws, administrative regulations, and judicial procedures.
Advanced legal research skills and proficiency with legal databases such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, or Fastcase.
Ability to draft and review legal documents, contracts, and policy statements precisely.
Experience with litigation, case management, and dispute resolution processes.
Ability to assess complex legal matters and develop sound legal strategies.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to provide strategic legal advice and anticipate legal risks.
Ability to manage multiple legal matters and deadlines simultaneously.
Ability to advocate for the agency’s interests while working toward fair resolutions.
Other job-related education and/or experience may substitute for some or all basic requirements, except certification or licensure requirements, subject to approval by the Qualifications Review Committee.

Responsibilities

Conduct legal research and prepare legal documents, including orders, pleadings, memoranda, contracts, interagency agreements, and official opinions.
Provide legal advice, opinions, and guidance to the agency, state agencies, boards, and commissions.
Interview and advise agency clients regarding cases.
Independently direct and conduct trials and hearings, including proceedings related to child welfare and/or adult protective services.
Advise on strategies and tactics for cases.
Review proposed legislation, administrative rules, agency policies, contracts, procurement agreements, and administrative decisions for legal sufficiency and compliance.
Interpret state and federal laws, court decisions, and regulatory changes affecting agency operations.
Prepare and present cases in administrative hearings, state courts, and appellate proceedings.
Assist in defending or prosecuting claims on behalf of the state.
Develop legal arguments, draft pleadings, and participate in discovery.
Represent the agency in settlement negotiations, mediation, and arbitration when applicable.
Advise agencies on ethics, administrative law, public records, and employment-related legal issues.
Assist in developing and implementing regulatory policies that comply with state and federal laws.
Monitor court rulings, attorney general opinions, and legislative changes affecting agency procedures.