Senior Social Services Attorney

Description

RESIDENCY: Candidates must have been legal residents of the following jurisdiction(s):

• Livingston County or New York State

Examples of Duties

• Provides legal advice to the Commissioner and departmental staff;
• Oversees and directs operations of the legal unit;
• Supervises subordinate professional and clerical staff in administering and rendering services to clients which are consistent with the laws and regulations, including, but not limited to: hiring, training, performance appraisals, and discipline;
• Prepares pleadings and papers for matters in litigation involving the department;
• Represents the department in administrative hearings, family court, trial and appellate courts;
• Conducts legal research;
• Negotiates settlements;
• Prepares contracts and settlement agreements;
• Interprets Federal, State and local laws and regulations as they relate to service programs, adapts guidelines and mandates for agency use and advises the Commissioner of Social Services;
• Participates regularly with agency staff in individual and group meetings;
• Maintains cooperative relationships with other agencies, public and private, and officials and citizens;
• Represents the Commissioner of Social Services at conferences, public meetings, etc. as directed;
• Provides community education and public relations regarding social services programs, which may include development of written material and public speaking;
• Assists in resolution and response to complaints, inquires and FOIL requests registered by the public regarding department programs and policies;
• Monitors contracts as directed by Commissioner;
• Cooperates with representatives of State agencies as needed in the operation and development of local district business;
• Prepares correspondence and reports as needed; and
• Performs other related duties.

• Comprehensive knowledge of the common law and of County, State and Federal laws as they apply to child and social welfare;
• Good trial skills and knowledge of civil court procedures and the rules of evidence;
• Good knowledge of the general functions and administrative activities of the County Department of Social Services;
• Good supervisory skills and knowledge;
• Ability to establish and maintain successful working relationships with people;
• Ability to plan, direct and accept responsibility for work of others;
• Ability to analyze, appraise, and apply legal principles, facts and precedents to legal problems;
• Ability to develop and implement effective legal strategies, especially in litigation situations;
• Ability to prepare clear and accurate records;
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
• Ability to interpret and represent the goals of the agency;
• Tact and courtesy;
• Good professional judgment; and
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Typical Qualifications

Admitted to practice and in good standing as an attorney and counselor at law before the courts of the State of New York AND three (3) years of full-time, paid experience in the practice of law in New York State.

Senior Social Services Attorney, one position, E in the County Service

Supplemental Information

NOTE: Livingston County residency is not a requirement for this position. However, Livingston County residents will be given preference in the hiring process.