Job Description:
This position is an entry-level Attorney that performs routine (journey-level) legal work in the Enforcement Department and upon completion of training, is eligible for telework. The Enforcement Department is one of seven departments in the Legal Services Division of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel. The Enforcement Department provides legal support related to HHS sanctions against facilities, programs, and services, including reviewing and drafting notices, correspondence, and guidance documents; interpreting state and federal laws, regulations, and rules; rendering legal advice and counsel to HHS agency personnel; providing legal representation in contested case proceedings, and overseeing enforcement litigation in district courts.
The position serves as legal counsel for the Health and Human Services Commission and is responsible for providing legal support to several program areas. The position may represent HHSC in contested cases governed by the Administrative Procedure Act before the State Office of Administrative Hearings and the Health and Human Services Commission Appeals Division. The position is required to handle a docket of cases and should be knowledgeable of litigation practices. The attorney advises program staff daily and helps them evaluate the legal sufficiency of proposed agency action. This position is eligible for telework.
Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
This position is an entry-level Attorney that performs routine (journey-level) legal work providing legal representation, consultation, and support to program areas across the Health and Human Services system. Work involves planning and organizing assigned caseload, interpreting laws and regulations, preparing legal documents, rendering legal advice and counsel, consulting with trial attorneys, conducting hearings, and assisting in preparing cases for administrative proceedings at HHSC Appeals Division and the State Office of Administrative Hearings at hearings governed by the Administrative Procedures Act from docketing to completion, including: analyzing evidence and preparing case strategies; preparing and serving discovery requests; responding to discovery; preparing and responding to motions; identifying and preparing witnesses; conducting depositions; and representing the agency at hearing. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
*Skilled in legal research, writing and analysis
*Skilled in handling multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines
*Skilled in demonstrating sound judgment
*Knowledge of Administrative Procedures Act as well as civil trial practice
*Skilled in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions
*Skilled in working collaboratively and cooperatively with client representatives, other government employees, and stakeholder groups
*Ability to organize and manage multiple tasks of varying priorities and to make efficient use of time and resources
*Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences both verbally and in writing
*Ability to maintain effective and collegial relations with all levels of management, staff and the public
*Ability to analyze complex factual and legal issues related to a wide variety of federal and state laws
*Ability to use computer applications and databases related to essential functions of the job, including computer-assisted legal research, Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Teams.
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Applicants must be licensed and in good standing to practice law in Texas.
Initial Selection Criteria:
Applicants must be licensed and in good standing to practice law in Texas.
Additional Information: N/A
MOS Code:
27A, 27B, 250X, LGL10, 4402, 4405, 4406, 4407, 4408, 4409, 4410, 51JX, and 92J0 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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