Legal Counsel

What You'll Do:

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

* Legal Advice:
Provides legal and policy counsel to the Chief Justice, Justices, Court leadership and staff regarding a wide variety of programs, policies, and regulations. Collaborates with other Supreme Court policy, legal, and research personnel.

* Legal Research & Analysis:
Researches, analyzes, appraises, and interprets laws, court decisions, rulings, advisory opinions, regulations, statutes, and pending legislation to determine an appropriate outcome. Drafts advisory opinions, memoranda, and reports on legal issues affecting the Court.

* Legislation:
Assists with preparing, drafting, analyzing, monitoring, and implementing legislative issues and initiatives affecting the Ohio judicial system; recommends appropriate action; and drafts talking points and other communication measures.

* Policy and Rule making:
Assists with developing, reviewing, and implementing Supreme Court administrative policies and rules. Assists with the dissemination and implementation of approved amendments to rules and policies, including updates to Center Source, internal binders, and staff communications. Maintain comprehensive records of all policy and rule changes, including historical versions and approval documentation.

* Litigation:
Assists with managing, preparing, monitoring, and tracking litigation. Drafts summary and advisory memos for the Court.

* Public Records:
Reviews, prepares, and coordinates public records requests; updates policies and procedures.

* Agreements & Contracts:
Reviews and coordinates intergovernmental agreements, grants, and contracts; advises on legal risks and terms.

* Training & Reference Materials:
Researches and prepares reference materials and provides training for judges and quasi-judicial employees. Presents to judges, judicial branch personnel, peers and colleagues at educational events.

* Advisory Bodies:
Provide backup counsel and rule drafting for Court advisory bodies, including rule commissions.

* Consultation:
Advises managers and Court personnel on programs, policies, and regulations.

* Special Projects:
Manages special projects assigned by senior leadership.

* Compliance:
Ensures compliance with Court rules, procurement, personnel policies, and federal laws (e.g., ADA, FLSA, FMLA).

STAFF

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

What we're looking for…

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Juris Doctor from an accredited law school required. At all times during employment with the Court, must be an attorney properly admitted to the practice of law, be in active and in good standing. This is typically acquired through two to five years of legal experience directly related legal experience in the public or private sector.

COMPETENCIES

* Legal Knowledge (Proficient):
Applies legal knowledge independently to analyze issues, interpret laws, and make sound decisions. Provides guidance to others on routine legal matters.

* Legal Research:
Proficiency in analyzing statutes, case law, and regulations.

* Communication

Skills:

Ability to articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively either verbally or in writing.

* Independence and Teamwork:
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

* Relationship Building:
Establish and maintain collaborative, effective working relationships with all stakeholders.

* Analytical Thinking:
Ability to assess complex issues logically.

* Problem Solving:
Ability to troubleshoot, think critically, and solve issues independently.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position operates in a professional office environment. Occasional travel on Court business may be required. This role routinely uses standard office equipment, including but not limited to computers and phones. Primarily a sedentary role; this position requires the ability to lift files and documents and involves constant operation of computer or other office equipment. Regular duties include communicating and exchanging information, as well as moving about the office and building as needed.

COURT EXPECTATIONS OF EMPLOYEE

Employees may be regularly exposed to sensitive information and the employee is expected to keep any such information strictly confidential.

In completing the duties and responsibilities of the position, the Court expects the employee will:

* Adhere to all Court policies, guidelines, practices, and procedures;

* Act as a role model both inside and outside the Court;

* Exhibit a professional manner in dealing with others;

* Work to maintain constructive working relationships;

* Maintain a positive and respectful approach with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Court;

Professional Skill(s):
Organizing and Planning, Strategic Thinking, Critical Thinking, Ethics and Values, Verbal Communication, Conflict Management, Written Communication

Technical Skill(s):
Attorney/Legal