Attorney I-DWS

State of Utah • Salt Lake City, UT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Utah Department of Workforce Services Office of General Counsel seeks an experienced attorney to join a small in-house counsel team. The position is based in Salt Lake City and is listed as in-office/on-site, though hybrid telework opportunities may be available when client needs are met. The Office of General Counsel advises and represents agency executive leadership, divisions, and supported public bodies. Its work includes providing legal opinions and counsel on compliance with federal and state law; reviewing contracts, grants, and other legal documents; drafting administrative rules and agency policy; representing the agency in administrative proceedings and public meetings; and handling civil matters, including debt collection.

The successful applicant will have advanced legal writing and clear, concise communication skills, and the ability to learn and use agency-specific computer applications. Preference is given to applicants experienced in advising executive leadership and representing governmental entities. Infrequent travel may be required for legal proceedings, meetings, and training throughout Utah, and travel to court locations with overnight stays may be required. Applicants must submit a 5- to 10-page legal writing sample; applicants who do not provide one will not be considered. The role requires a Juris Doctorate and active membership in good standing with the Utah State Bar.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate.
• Active membership in good standing in the Utah State Bar.
• A 5- to 10-page legal writing sample must be submitted with the application; applicants who do not provide one will not be considered.
• Experience providing general legal counsel to a governmental entity or senior-level management.
• Firm understanding of the Utah Administrative Procedures Act and procedural and evidentiary rules for administrative proceedings and civil litigation in Utah.
• Working knowledge of the Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act and rulemaking procedures.
• Working knowledge of the Open and Public Meetings Act and the Utah Public Officers' and Employees' Ethics Act.
• Proficient legal analysis skills, including interpreting and applying case law, statutes, rules, and regulations.
• Ability to write clearly and concisely while maintaining legal accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to high ethical and professional standards.
• Ability to learn novel computer applications and navigate agency-specific applications.

Nice To Haves

• Experience advising executive leadership.
• Experience representing governmental entities.

Responsibilities

• Provide consultation, recommendations, and legal advice to executive leadership, agency divisions, and related public bodies.
• Receive, research, and respond to legal questions.
• Conduct legal research and analysis, gather evidence, and prepare concise recommendations based on facts and applicable law and standards.
• Draft correspondence, reports, documents, administrative orders, and other written materials.
• Review contracts, grants, and data-sharing agreements for compliance.
• Prepare cases through legal research and evidence gathering.
• Facilitate resolution of civil and administrative actions.
• Represent the agency at formal and informal hearings.
• Present written and oral arguments before courts, judges, and other adjudicators.
• Take administrative and civil legal action against violators of statutes and rules, including enforcement of civil judgments.
• Conduct conferences with parties, including self-represented parties, negotiate settlements, and attend court appearances.

Benefits

• Full benefits package eligibility.
• Job stability and reliable employment.
• Career growth and opportunities for leadership.
• Meaningful work that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive work environment emphasizing cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
• Work/life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree