Legal Counsel I

Harris Central Appraisal District•Houston, TX

About The Position

Join an organization that values it's community and employees! The purpose of this entry level position is to represent the Appraisal District in civil litigation before the State District Courts and in administrative hearings. Activities will include conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, pre-trial discovery and motion practice, alternative dispute resolution and trial representation for a large portfolio of civil lawsuits. Activities may also include support of the appraisal district through transactional legal representation as needed.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate, Graduation from an accredited law school
Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas.
0 to 5 years of legal experience
HCAD operating practices and policy
Knowledge of Texas civil procedure required
Computer legal research using Westlaw
Must have sufficient mobility to visit property sites that may feature rough terrain and to work outdoors in unfavorable weather conditions.
Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods of time with ability to reach, bend and move up/down on steps.
Must be able to lift up to 50-pounds.
The position requires considerable concentration, creativity and ability to manage time effectively.
The position is subject to stress caused by a changing public environment, mandatory deadlines and heavy workload.
Requires the ability to ask questions that will bring forth the information needed to make sound decisions.

Nice To Haves

Experience working for a governmental agency preferred
Experience in a high-volume litigation environment preferred.
Knowledge of the Tax Code and Government Code preferred
Knowledge of the Public Information Act preferred

Responsibilities

Maintain HCAD litigation support as in-house counsel.
Develop arguments and represent the appraisal district as legal counsel during judicial and administrative proceedings.
Perform legal research and writing.
Draft motions, pleadings and legal briefs.
Propound and respond to written discovery.
Negotiate settlements and resolve cases favorably and cost-effectively for the district.
Exercise proper professional and ethical responsibilities to internal and external clients.
Maintain and update district publications, pamphlets, forms, and other documentation correspondence, reports, contracts and other legal documents as required.
Take ownership and accountability for special projects assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Work under the supervision of more experienced lawyers, providing support and assistance, such as performing legal research for a particular case and preparing a case for trial.
Manage a caseload of primarily straightforward lower value cases.
Attend mediations and settlement conferences.
Keep supervisor abreast of the progress of a case by creating reports and communicating verbally.
Provide general input to diagnose, investigate and provide solutions to problems.
Plan, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
Attend and participate in staff meetings
Stay informed about current legislation, especially concerning property tax and local government.
Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, seminars, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies to meet CLE requirements.
Demonstrate interest in furthering career development.
Maintain involvement with the community and bar association.
Demonstrate “team first” attitude on a consistent basis.