Tobacco Attorney

State of Montana•Helena, MT

15h

About The Position

The Tobacco Attorney works in the Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) within the Montana Department of Justice. The position enforces the 1998 Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (MSA), including investigating and prosecuting violations of Montana tobacco laws. The MSA requires tobacco companies to make ongoing payments to states and restricts advertising to children and false claims about cigarette health effects. Continued state receipt of substantial MSA funding depends significantly on diligent tobacco-law enforcement. The Attorney represents the State of Montana in complex and routine civil litigation in state and federal courts and administrative forums. Matters include the MSA, the Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act of 1973, the False Claims Act, unauthorized practice of law, and statutes affecting nonprofit corporations and charitable trusts. The Attorney also participates in multistate examinations, investigations, and litigation through conference calls and working groups. This position supervises the Tobacco Paralegal and reports to the OCP Bureau Chief.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree.
At least two years of specialized law and litigation experience.
Admission to and maintenance of licensure from the State Bar of Montana, or ability to become licensed to practice law in Montana within one year of hire if licensed in another state.
Applicants with five years of practice in another state in good standing are eligible for admission on motion.
Other combinations of education and experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Submit a résumé, cover letter, and legal writing sample of 3,000 words or less, prepared within the last three years at the time of application.

Nice To Haves

At least two years of specialized law and litigation experience, preferably in consumer protection.

Responsibilities

Enforce the 1998 Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement and Montana tobacco laws through investigations and prosecutions.
Represent the State of Montana in civil litigation in state and federal courts and administrative forums.
Handle matters involving the MSA, consumer protection laws, the False Claims Act, unauthorized practice of law, nonprofit corporations, and charitable trusts.
Participate in multistate examinations, investigations, and litigation through conference calls and working groups.
Supervise the Tobacco Paralegal.