Job Description

Attorney I

This position serves as the general staff attorney for the Office of the Prosecutor Coordinator. The primary duties include conducting legal research, preparing trial briefs, motions, and legal memoranda, editing, and publishing a monthly newsletter, trial manuals, and other legal resources for prosecuting attorneys and deputy prosecuting attorneys throughout the state. During the biennial legislative sessions, this position drafts proposed legislation and tracks bills involving criminal justice issues. Additionally, this position serves as back-up to the involuntary admissions attorney, conducting involuntary admissions hearings before the Mental Health Court at the Arkansas State Hospital.

Job Series: Attorneys – Career Path Classification: Attorney I Class Code: LAT03P Pay Grade: SPC03 Salary Range: $71,027 - $105,120

Job Summary The Attorney I is an entry-level legal position within the state government, responsible for providing legal research, analysis, and support on various legal matters affecting state agencies. This role involves drafting legal documents, assisting with litigation, interpreting laws and regulations, and advising agency personnel on legal issues.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research on statutes, case law, administrative codes, and policies relevant to state operations.
• Analyze and interpret laws, regulations, and legal precedents to provide recommendations for agency decision-making.
• Assist in identifying legal risks and advising on appropriate courses of action.
• Draft legal memoranda, contracts, opinions, and administrative rules under supervision.
• Assist in preparing pleadings, motions, and other court-related documents as needed.
• Review proposed legislation and policies for legal sufficiency and compliance with state laws.
• Support agency attorneys in case preparation, depositions, and administrative hearings.
• Gather and organize evidence, affidavits, and legal arguments for hearings and trials.
• Monitor court rulings and regulatory changes that impact agency policies and procedures.
• Provide legal guidance to agency staff on compliance with state and federal laws.
• Assist in reviewing agency procedures, contracts, and policies for legal soundness.
• Participate in training sessions to educate employees on legal requirements and best practices.

Knowledge and Skills

• Fundamental knowledge of Arkansas state laws, administrative procedures, and legal principles.
• Strong legal research and writing abilities to analyze and apply legal concepts effectively.
• Familiarity with court procedures, government regulations, and statutory interpretation.
• Proficiency in using legal research tools (Westlaw, LexisNexis) and office software (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to evaluate complex legal issues and present well-reasoned conclusions.
• Strong written and verbal communication to convey legal information clearly.
• Precision in drafting legal documents and reviewing laws for compliance.
• Ability to assess legal risks and recommend effective solutions.
• Capability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a fast-paced legal environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• Must be licensed as an Attorney in the State of Arkansas.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

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