Family Law - General Attorney in Midland, TX

Government

Midland, TX

Family Law - General Attorney in Midland, TX

Attorney

No

Job Title: Administrative Hearings Attorney III

Job Responsibilities:
The Administrative Hearings Attorney III is tasked with representing the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) before the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). The primary responsibility involves handling due process hearings related to findings of abuse and neglect of children. The role encompasses overseeing and planning legal activities, preparing legal documents, participating in hearings, interpreting laws and regulations, and offering legal advice and counsel. The position requires working under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Key responsibilities include:

- Planning and organizing legal activities to ensure deadlines are met and successful outcomes are achieved for the agency.
- Coordinating the preparation of legal opinions, briefs, contracts, proposals, and reports.
- Conducting research on legal concepts, case law, judicial opinions, statutes, and regulations.
- Coordinating and responding to open records requests and monitoring changes in state and federal court cases and rules.
- Preparing cases for court trial, scheduling SOAH hearings, interrogating witnesses, and preparing pleadings.
- Advising staff and the public on legal matters, including the interpretation and application of agency regulations and state and federal laws.
- Enforcing agency regulatory provisions and prosecuting violations to reduce liability and adverse impact on the agency.
- Reviewing drafts of laws, rules, and regulations affecting agency operations.
- Scheduling hearings, interrogating witnesses, and preparing decisions on administrative appeals.
- Preparing cases for court trial and monitoring the progress of all DFPS cases within the assigned area of responsibility.
- Assisting in formulating, coordinating, and establishing policies and procedures.
- Preparing subpoenas and assisting in collecting records and documentation for hearings and civil litigations.
- Drafting memoranda on regulatory matters and administrative rules for the Texas Register.
- Researching, drafting, or assisting in drafting bills and amendments for legislative consideration.
- Serving as a liaison with complainants in administrative hearings.
- Supervising the work of others and performing related work as assigned.

Education and Experience Information:
The candidate must have graduated from an accredited law school and must be licensed to practice law in the State of Texas, maintaining good standing with the State Bar of Texas. The position requires knowledge of legal principles, practices, proceedings, state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and agency administrative rules and regulations. Skills in legal research, writing, analysis, and the ability to conduct hearings, prepare opinions, and interpret laws are essential.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
The candidate must be licensed to practice law in Texas and be in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.

Salary Information:
The salary range for this position is $6, - $10,. This is a full-time, exempt position eligible for telework.

Additional Information:
- The position involves up to 15% travel.
- The role is a full-time telework position.
- Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and, if applicable, a driver’s record check.
- Familiarity with accessibility standards such as WCAG AA and Section 508 is required.
- DFPS uses E-Verify, and employees must provide documentation to show identity and authorization to work in the US.
- Reasonable accommodation is provided for qualified individuals with disabilities during the hiring and selection process.