Attorney Advisor

Job Summary

This position is located in the District of Columbia, Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS), Office of General Counsel (OGC). The mission of DYRS is to improve public safety and give court-involved youth the opportunity to become more productive citizens by building on the strengths of youths and their families in the least restrictive, most homelike environment consistent with public safety.

The OGC is responsible for reviewing legal matters pertaining to the agency and its programs, analyzing existing or proposed federal or local legislation and rules, managing the development of new legislation and rules, and coordinating legal services to the agency.

Duties And Responsibilities

The Attorney Advisor serves as a senior attorney in the OGC. The incumbent handles complex and difficult matters, reviewing various legal documents and relevant case laws to determine whether execution or non-execution of proposed actions is in the best interest of the District of Columbia government. Provides statements of reasons and draft language necessary to obviate objections, examine and analyze proposed orders, legislation, and other legal documents for legal sufficiency in both form and substance, and perform research to provide oral or written opinions resulting from such analysis. Reviews hearing records, including briefs, exceptions, rulings, decisions, and reports of findings of fact and conclusions of law, offering recommendations to supervisors as appropriate. Prepares memoranda on legal questions and proposals, draft tentative documents for final decision, and consult frequently with administrative agency officials, providing advice regarding the extent of their legal duties and power. Prepares and reviews complaints, citations, and other pleadings, serves as a prosecutor by presenting evidence in support of cases, handles administrative appeals, and confers with District Government officials, members of administrative bodies, and officials outside the District Government to incorporate concerns during reviews and proceedings on other matters.

The Attorney Advisor attends and participates in hearings before the Council of the District of Columbia and the U.S. Congress regarding proposed laws and legislation that may affect existing laws related to the functions of the agency. Assist other components of the agency in court litigation resulting from matters handled by the Office, perform all functions related to case and calendar management, including case transfer, close-out reports, case file entry updating, and documentation of actions taken. Ensures timely review of legal proceedings and handles other administrative functions associated with the conclusion of assigned matters. Keeps abreast of judicial, agency, and regulatory changes related to the OGC's functions, recommending appropriate courses of action to supervisors when necessary. Provides technical guidance and assistance to junior attorneys in areas of special expertise and compiles monthly statistical and status reports of assigned matters.

Qualifications And Education

Must possess a LLB or Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) at the time of appointment.

Must have at least three (3) years of post J.D. professional legal experience.

Licensures. Certifications And Other Requirements

Must be an active member in good standing of the bar of the District of Columbia or have the ability or be eligible to waive in and be admitted within 360 days of appointment. If eligible to waive in, the incumbent must submit an application for admission to the DC Bar prior to commencing employment. Shall remain a member in good standing of the District of Columbia Bar during his/her employment.

Work Environment

The work is performed in an office environment.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty: Monday – Friday; 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: LA-0905-14

Promotion Potential: No known promotion potential.

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union): This position is not covered under a collective bargaining unit.

Position Designation: The incumbent in this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel regulations, Suitability. This position has been designated as a security-sensitive position.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.