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Job Description

Are you passionate about public service and looking for a fulfilling career path? Then don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity for a rewarding career at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and apply now! At HHSC, we are responsible for overseeing and managing programs that assist families with access to food, health care, safety, and disaster services. This Attorney II position will work in the Office of Chief Counsel and provide legal services to the various programs at HHSC.

You will also love the benefits of working at HHSC:

• Flexible work schedules
• Hybrid work setting, if applicable
• Work-life balance
• Free CLE hours
• 96 hours or more of accrued vacation each year
• 96 hours of accrued sick leave each year
• Additional holiday hours
• Career advancement opportunities
• Free comprehensive medical insurance for full-time employees with additional benefits for dependents

The Attorney II performs moderately complex attorney work as part of the Litigation Department in the Office of Chief Counsel at HHSC. The job includes interpreting state and federal laws and rules related to programs administered by the agency, drafting documents, rendering legal advice and counsel to agency management and program staff, working with the Office of Attorney General (OAG) to defend and prosecute lawsuits involving the agency, assisting in the preparation of cases for trial and hearings, and other duties as assigned. The Attorney II works under the supervision of more senior attorneys with latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

This Attorney II position is eligible for telework.

Essential Job Functions

The Attorney III will attend work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and perform other duties as assigned.

The Attorney II will draft summaries of new litigation identifying parties and claims, and work with more senior attorneys to identify defenses and evaluate potential risks to the agency and its employees. The Attorney II will draft timely, accurate, and concise updates for the Director of Litigation and Chief Counsel concerning the status of, and new developments in, agency lawsuits. The Attorney II will research legal issues related to litigation and provide timely, accurate, and concise analysis and advice. (30%)

The Attorney II will draft letters to the OAG requesting representation in litigation. The Attorney II will work with the assigned Assistant Attorney General (AAG) and agency staff to respond to complaints and petitions. The Attorney II will research claims and defenses and, in consultation with more senior attorneys, ensure appropriate motions are filed timely by the OAG. The Attorney II will draft and review briefs and motions as needed. (25%)

The Attorney II will review discovery requests and work with agency staff to identify responsive information and documents. The position will draft or review discovery responses and objections. The Attorney II will use e-discovery software to review documents and other information for production. The Attorney II will draft or review discovery requests as needed. The Attorney II will ensure the OAG pursues offensive discovery as needed. (25%)

The Attorney II will, in consultation with more senior attorneys, draft recommendations for review by the Director of Litigation and Chief Counsel on whether to appeal court rulings. The Attorney II will draft or review appellate briefs and arguments and work with OAG to ensure appeals are filed timely. (10%)

The Attorney II will review settlement recommendations from OAG and, in consultation with more senior attorneys, draft settlement recommendations for review by the Director of Litigation and Chief Counsel. The Attorney II will participate in settlement negotiations and ensure that all settlement documents adequately protect the agency's interests. The Attorney II will work with OAG and agency staff to ensure appropriate implementation of settlements. (10%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities

Knowledge of the federal and state rules of civil evidence and procedure.

Skill in researching, reviewing, analyzing, interpreting and applying federal and state laws, rules, and other regulations affecting the agency. Skill in writing, communicating, and solving complex problems using reasoning and logic. Skill in trial preparation.

Ability to use agency computers and software platforms, conduct legal research, summarize findings and advice, and communicate effectively and professionally; ability to prioritize workloads and to use good judgment to identify appropriate courses of action and legal strategy in lawsuits and other matters as assigned.

Registration Or Licensure Requirements

Must be licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and a member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.

Initial Selection Criteria

Graduation from an accredited law school with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

At least six months of civil litigation experience preferred, but not required.

Additional Information

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to: 27A, 27B, 250X, LGL10, 4402, 51JX. All active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx

MOS Code

27A, 27B, 250X, LGL10, 4402, 51JX

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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