Research Attorney

Macomb County Government

6d • $73,215 - $94,698

About The Position

Under direction, provides legal advice and research support activities on issues of interest to the Circuit Court. Reviews legal materials submitted by attorneys and parties. Researches applicable laws. Writes proposed opinions and memoranda. Makes verbal reports as assigned.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor Degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school
• Current membership and in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan
• Possession of a valid Michigan driver’s license and operable, insured automobile for authorized travel
• Knowledge of: Court operations at the Circuit, Probate and District Court level
• Methods of legal research and writing
• Computers, including Microsoft Office, Google applications, and other related computer applications
• Court-specific computer applications, including CourtView and OnBase
• Skill in: Conducting and concisely summarizing legal research
• Organizational ability and initiative
• Managing multiple assignments, timelines and deadlines
• Punctuality, working independently and meeting deadlines with limited supervision
• Ability to: Research and report on complex or technical legal issues as assigned
• Understand complex legal arguments on issues of constitutionally, government immunity, contracts, negligence, medical malpractice, etc.
• Proficiently conduct legal research using an on-line database such as Westlaw and Lexis
• Distill legal issues and present legal findings in a clear and concise manner
• Work in an environment which embraces the county’s Dignity Campaign
• Effectively speak, write and understand the English language
• Understand and carry out oral and/or written instructions
• Accurately organize and maintain paper documents and electronic files
• Maintain the confidentiality of information

Nice To Haves

• Previous legal research and writing experience
• Effectively speak, write and understand a language other than English is preferred

Responsibilities

• Provides research support activities and legal advice as directed.
• Performs legal research online and in print materials.
• Drafts legal memoranda and other legal documents for the Bench and Court Administration.
• Monitors new legal materials, including but not limited to, electronic materials, newspapers, professional journals, and opinions of state and federal courts.
• Exercises professional judgment on legal matters in a timely fashion and communicates accordingly.
• Reviews transcripts and other materials submitted by attorneys, parties in cases and relevant authorities.
• Prepares documents using a personal computer and word processing program(s).
• Attends court proceedings, assists with rulings, prepares jury instructions and assists with pre-trial conferences.
• Assists in the recruitment and training of interns and externs.
• Maintains current knowledge base by participating in continuing legal education, attending workshops, seminars, conferences and reading related publications.
• Operates an automobile while performing assigned job duties.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Macomb County proudly offers medical, dental, and vision coverage, with no monthly premium to employees for single, two (2) person or family coverage. Health care, dental and vision benefits are effective the first day of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees