Chief Legal Counsel

State of Colorado•Denver, CO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Governor’s Office of Legal is committed to working with the Governor to further a Colorado for All. We provide legal advice and analysis to the Governor, the Governor’s Office, and his cabinet in areas of legal complexity and importance. The attorneys in the office play key roles in legislative bill review and engagement, policy research and development, drafting of executive orders, judicial appointments at all levels of Colorado courts, granting of clemency, media responses, and designing and implementing strategic policies and goals. Further, we represent the Governor in discussions with stakeholders and elected officials, advocate for the Governor’s agenda and policy objectives, and work with the Office of the Attorney General to manage litigation involving the state, the Governor, and agencies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor Degrees required
Must be a licensed attorney in good standing in Colorado.
Bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school required.
Must be a licensed attorney in good standing with the Colorado Supreme Court, or eligible for immediate admission on motion.

Nice To Haves

Minimum of 10 years progressive experience, or otherwise demonstrate a high acumen in the areas of public law, government affairs, or advising executive-level leadership.
Demonstrated experience with the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), Amendment 41, state rulemaking processes, and the Colorado legislative system.
Experience leading and managing professional teams across both legal and human resources or operational disciplines.
Proven ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-scrutiny environment requiring rapid problem-solving and absolute confidentiality.

Responsibilities

Provide legal, policy, and strategic advice and counsel to the Governor, the Governor’s Office, the Lt. Governor, and Cabinet and their senior staff.
Develop, counsel, and train members of the Governor’s Office on laws and policies.
Monitor and provide legal and strategic guidance regarding the Governor’s calendar and communications.
Monitor and provide legal and strategic guidance to successfully pass the Governor’s legislative agenda, including drafting and negotiating bills.
Represent the Governor in stakeholder meetings.
Oversee Colorado Open Records Act requests for the Governor’s Office.
Oversee judicial selection process for all vacancies to be filled by the Governor.
Oversee clemency process for commutes and pardons granted by the Governor.
Serve as a liaison between the Governor’s Office and the Office of the Attorney General.
Serve as a liaison between the Governor’s Office and the Judicial Department.
Oversee the Office of Legal Counsel and Human Resources.