Litigation Attorney - Department of Corrections

State of Vermont•Waterbury, VT

21d

About The Position

The Vermont Attorney General’s Office, Agency of Human Services Legal Division, is hiring a full-time Assistant Attorney General to represent the Vermont Department of Corrections (DOC). Based in Waterbury, Vermont, the role is part of the DOC Litigation Unit, which defends the DOC, its employees, and the State of Vermont in civil actions, habeas corpus petitions, small claims actions, and administrative actions in Vermont state civil courts, federal courts, and occasionally state criminal courts. The attorney will handle all aspects of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, trials, and appeals to the Vermont Supreme Court. DOC attorneys may also provide legal advice to the Department on other legal issues. The role offers the opportunity to work with a team of professional litigators in a supportive environment and develop trial advocacy skills in state and federal court systems. The position is exempt and full-time. Salary and benefits are based on qualifications and experience under the State of Vermont Attorney Pay Plan. The State offers health care, sick and annual leave, employer pension contributions, and flexible workplace arrangements in accordance with applicable policies.

Requirements

Be a member in good standing of the Vermont bar or eligible to be waived in.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong negotiation skills.
Ability to interpret and apply laws, policies, and court decisions in a fast-paced litigation environment.
Willingness to commit to occasional travel.
Ability to work independently within the structure of a government legal team.
Self-reliance and IT skills.
Knowledge of state and federal civil procedure.
Relevant litigation experience, especially in Vermont courts.

Responsibilities

Represent the Vermont Department of Corrections.
Defend the DOC, its employees, and the State of Vermont in civil actions, habeas corpus petitions, small claims actions, and administrative actions in state civil courts, federal courts, and occasionally state criminal courts.
Conduct all aspects of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, trial practice, and appeals to the Vermont Supreme Court.
Provide legal advice to the Department on other legal issues as needed.