Lawyer Supervisor

State of Montana • Helena, MT

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, Office of the Montana State Auditor, (CSI) is seeking a Deputy Chief Legal Counsel to help lead the Legal Division. This position is a supervisory position and is exempt under the FLSA. CSI is tasked with protecting Montanans by regulating two of the state’s largest industries: securities and insurance. As a criminal justice agency, CSI protects Montanans through public education, regulation of covered entities, and vigorous enforcement of the law, ensuring accountability for fraudsters and justice for their victims.

Requirements

• A Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Membership in good standing in the State Bar of Montana, or the ability to become a member by an agreed-upon date.
• Ten years of experience with progressively more difficult legal work.
• Experience as lead counsel at trial in complex civil or criminal matters.
• Three or more years of relevant managerial experience, preferably in the public sector.
• Successful completion of a fingerprint background check.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Individuals with five (5) years of practice in another state may be able to apply for admission to the Montana Bar “on motion.”
• Three or more years of experience with insurance or securities law.
• Practical experience as a licensed insurance or securities professional.
• Exceptional legal research and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Serve as lead counsel for special projects and key litigation matters, including drafting pleadings and briefs, representing CSI in court appearances, and representing CSI on appeal.
• Participate in the supervision and management of CSI’s Legal Division to ensure the timely, accurate, and professional delivery of legal services.
• Manage and supervise other attorneys and paralegals, including supervising cases from the initial referral to the final resolution.
• Assist with recruiting and hiring members of the legal team.
• Participate in developing office-wide policies and strategies that are consistent with applicable laws.
• Provide testimony before the Montana Legislature as necessary.
• Perform a variety of other legal and managerial duties in support of the CSI’s mission and program objectives.
• Represent the agency at meetings and conferences.
• Coordinate projects and initiatives with other state, federal, and tribal agencies.
• Respond to written and telephonic requests for public information.
• Respond to inquiries from regulated entities, interest groups, and the public to provide information and maintain public awareness of CSI programs and activities.

Benefits

• Up to 38+ paid days off a year, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous maternity and parental leave.
• Hybrid or partial telework work arrangements may be possible.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family starting on your first day of employment.
• Access to telehealth and comprehensive services at the employee health clinics at no additional out-of-pocket cost through our medical plan.
• Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary.
• A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
• Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

What This Job Offers

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