ATTORNEY II

State of Arkansas•Fayetteville, AR

34d•$85,943 - $127,195

About The Position

The Attorney II is a mid-level legal professional in state government who provides legal counsel, conducts research, drafts legal documents, and represents the agency in administrative and judicial proceedings. The role requires independent decision-making, case management, and complex legal analysis. The trial attorney conducts research, prepares legal documents, and provides legal advice and opinions to the agency. The work includes substantial time in court conducting hearings, preparing orders and pleadings, and 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 on compliance, policy implementation, and statutory interpretation; reviews legislation, rules, and agency policies; represents the agency in proceedings; and advises on legal risks and agency operations. The listed salary range is $85,943–$127,195. The position is with the Arkansas Department of Human Services in Washington County.

Requirements

Must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Must be licensed as an attorney in the State of Arkansas.
Minimum qualifications state two years of experience as an attorney.
Preferred qualifications state three years of experience practicing law.
Strong understanding of Arkansas state laws, administrative regulations, and judicial procedures.
Advanced legal research skills, including 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, anticipate legal risks, manage multiple matters and deadlines, and advocate for agency interests while working toward fair resolutions.

Nice To Haves

Three years of experience practicing law.
Additional recruiting requirements may be set by the agency, subject to review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management.

Responsibilities

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