TEC-Attorney I- III (26-01)

JOB DESCRIPTION: The Texas Ethics Commission (“Commission”) is hiring two attorneys to perform entry level to moderately complex attorney work administering and enforcing state ethics laws. Work for the Enforcement Division would involve investigating and processing sworn complaints, conducting discovery and hearings, and drafting and negotiating settlements. These positions will work under moderate supervision with significant latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Classification and salary are based on experience.

SPECIFIC JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Processes and investigates sworn complaint cases.
• Conducts discovery, including requests for production, written questions, and applications for the issuance and enforcement of subpoenas.
• Conducts or assists in administrative enforcement hearings before the Commissioners, including preliminary review hearings, and pre-hearing conferences and formal hearings subject to the Administrative Procedure Act, Texas Rules of Evidence, and Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.
• Drafts and negotiates settlements with respondents and opposing counsel.
• Assists in referring cases to criminal prosecutors.
• Performs legal research and prepares legal memoranda, including briefs and motions.
• Makes presentations to the Commissioners, groups regulated by the Commission, and the general public.
• May research and analyze legislation, and communicate with or testify before members and staff of the Texas Legislature, during legislative sessions.
• Performs related work as assigned.

WORK EXPECTATIONS:

Must be able to:

• Regularly, reliably, and punctually attend work.
• Responsibly handle sensitive and highly confidential information and situations.
• Work extended hours as necessary.
• Travel occasionally for work assignments and training.
• Show flexibility and adaptability toward changes in assignments and work schedules.
• Adhere to the agency’s internal management policies and procedures.
• Exhibit work behaviors consistent with agency core values.

Telework and flexible schedule available, subject to agency needs.

RELATED MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY CODES:

Veterans, Reservists, or Guardsmen with a MOS or additional duties that fall in the fields of 27A Judge Advocate General, 250X Judge Advocate General Corps, LG10 or 04 Legal, 4410 Master of Law (General), and 44 Legal services or other related fields pertaining to the minimum experience requirement may meet the minimum qualifications for this position and are encouraged to apply. Additional Military Crosswalk information can be accessed at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_Legal.pdf

E-VERIFY:

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation from an accredited law school with a J.D. (Juris Doctor) or L.L.B. (Bachelor of Laws) degree.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
• Litigation and/or trial experience, including moot court or mock trial experience.
• Experience in providing legal advice to government officials or the general public.
• Knowledge of the laws under the jurisdiction of the Commission.
• Experience in administrative law or regulatory enforcement.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Excellent legal research and writing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to prepare briefs, conduct research, summarize findings, interpret and apply laws, use legal reference materials, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to multi-task and work independently under moderate supervision.
• Ability to conduct contested hearings.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with co-workers, agency staff, and external contacts.
• Ability to work effectively in a professional team environment.
• Strong public speaking skills.

REGISTRATION, CERTIFICATION, OR LICENSURE:

• Must be licensed to practice law in the state of Texas or actively seeking licensure.