Law Clerk

State of Montana•Helena, MT

23h

About The Position

Helena is surrounded by rolling hills and lofty mountains and is tucked below the Continental Divide. It is a relatively quiet place to call home where small-town living collides with outdoor adventure. Helena has a rich history and was originally founded as a gold camp during the Montana gold rush. We know you have other work options, but we ask you to consider working with us at the State of Montana for the Montana Tax Appeal Board. Our foundation of success is having effective working relationships, built on mutual trust and respect. We will challenge you to be the best you can be and will work hard to provide a work environment that allows you to succeed. The Montana Tax Appeal Board (MTAB) provides an independent tax appeal system for issues relating to state taxation. The Board hears appeals from the Montana Department of Revenue decisions, involving residential and commercial property valuation, and takes original jurisdiction in all matters involving state income taxes, corporate taxes, severance taxes, centrally-assessed property and industrial property, motor fuels taxes, and vehicle taxes. MTAB is looking for a motivated individual skilled in research and writing who is eager to enhance their knowledge of Montana tax law. This position provides professional legal work for a Board of three administrative law judges resolving statewide property valuation and taxation policy disputes. The work involves legal research and writing, legal and administrative work in the preparation of memoranda, opinions, and orders for the Board concerning the cases before it, as well as drafting administrative rules as needed. Previous individuals in this role have gained experience and honed their skill set and have gone on to practice law in a variety of capacities including hearings examiner, deputy county prosecutor, appellate attorney and as a clerk for a trial court judge. Also, we are open to flexible scheduling within a 40-hour workweek.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Admission to the State Bar of Montana or eligible to sit for the exam is preferable.
Alternate combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Knowledge of general law, state law, established precedent, and sources of legal reference including tax, Montana administrative law, evidence, and civil procedure.
Ability to research complex legal problems or questions and apply legal principles.
Knowledge of tax law and concepts.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with a diverse group of people.
Ability to maintain office confidentiality and handle stressful situations.
Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, and the ability to pay attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability to deal effectively with the public, maintain professional integrity and respect for colleagues and co-workers.

Responsibilities

Legal research and writing
Legal and administrative work in the preparation of memoranda, opinions, and orders for the Board concerning the cases before it
Drafting administrative rules as needed