SENIOR ATTORNEY - 60074334

State of Florida • Dundee, FL

22d • $75,000 - $85,000

About The Position

The Senior Attorney works in the Office of General Counsel for the Florida Department of Children and Families and may be based at any DCF location. The role handles legal matters concerning Florida’s public records and open meetings laws, including responding to requests for legal opinions and processing public information and public records requests from media, lawyers, advocacy groups, private citizens, and state employees. These requests may require multiple communications with requesters and department staff during and after regular work hours.

The attorney identifies potential legal problems in department planning, operations, and administration; advises department management and personnel; develops and presents tailored training curricula; and represents the department in related litigation. The position also assists regional attorneys, negotiates and mediates disputes with public records requestors, reviews proposed legislation, and examines statutes, rules, and caselaw to identify possible remedial legislation. Other related duties may be assigned.

The stated salary range for Senior Attorneys with two or more years of experience is $80,000–$85,000. Applicants must be members of the Florida Bar. Employment is subject to required background screening. The posting also notes the State of Florida’s drug-free workplace policy and Selective Service registration requirement for applicable male candidates.

Requirements

• Must be a member of the Florida Bar.

Responsibilities

• Respond to oral and written requests for legal opinions concerning Florida’s public records and open meetings laws.
• Process public information and public records requests from media, lawyers, advocacy groups, private citizens, and state agency employees, communicating with requesters and department staff as needed.
• Identify potential legal problems in department planning, operations, and administration, primarily concerning public records and open meetings laws.
• Advise department management and personnel on public records and open meetings law issues.
• Develop and present curricula tailored to different department program areas on Florida’s public records and open meetings laws.
• Represent the department in litigation involving public records or open meetings and assist regional attorneys handling similar litigation.
• Negotiate and mediate public records disputes between the department and requestors.
• Work with department personnel to review proposed legislation that may affect department operations or administration.
• Review existing statutes, rules, and caselaw to propose remedial legislation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Annual and sick leave
• Nine paid holidays and one personal holiday each year
• State Group Insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance
• Retirement plan options, including employer contributions
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition waivers

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed