Staff Attorney

Optima Office•San Diego, CA

9d•$72,778 - $109,167•Hybrid

About The Position

The Staff Attorney provides members with current legal and ethical information by answering daily calls, writing articles, presenting workshops, and conducting legal research. The role addresses legal and ethical issues related to the day-to-day practice of mental health professionals and applies relevant statutes, regulations, and ethical codes. The attorney also completes assignments and ad hoc projects as directed by the Managing Director of Legal Affairs. The position communicates and collaborates with internal staff and external partners, including committee and Board members, chapters, schools, agencies, professional associations, regulatory agencies, legislative representatives, and other professional or organizational contacts. It represents the organization in stakeholder meetings at the state and federal levels and supports advocacy and committee work. This is a full-time position with a hybrid work arrangement. It requires in-person attendance at organizational and department meetings and activities, plus approximately 15% travel throughout California for workshops and other activities. The role reports to the Managing Director of Legal Affairs.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed attorney in good standing with the California State Bar.
Strong legal research, writing, and analytical abilities.
Ability to interpret and apply professional licensing laws and regulations.
Strong presentation skills.
Strong ethical standards and commitment to confidentiality and professional responsibility.
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
Positive demeanor and ability to communicate confidently, professionally, warmly, and patiently with members, staff, and professional contacts.
Self-motivated, collaborative, punctual, and reliable.

Nice To Haves

Background in healthcare law, mental health law, or related regulatory compliance.
Familiarity with laws and regulations affecting mental health practice, including confidentiality, licensing, malpractice, and professional ethics.
Knowledge of healthcare and mental health privacy laws such as HIPAA and state confidentiality regulations.

Responsibilities

Answer member calls about legal and ethical issues in the day-to-day practice of mental health professionals, typically handling 30 or more calls per day while completing assigned work.
Provide information about statutes, regulations, and ethical codes relevant to members’ questions.
Create and present legal and ethical workshops, typically 2–6 hours long, for the organization’s online library and chapters throughout California.
Write legal and ethical articles for The Therapist related to the profession.
Conduct legal research and analyze laws, regulations, and ethical standards affecting the profession.
Represent the organization in meetings with stakeholders at the state and federal levels.
Research and draft advocacy letters to insurance companies, regulators, legislators, and others, as assigned.
Support advocacy efforts and committees, as assigned.
Attend staff meetings and collaborate with staff across the organization.
Complete ad hoc projects and other duties as assigned.
Maintain satisfactory attendance.