Attorney IV, Disciplinary Counsel

Location: Columbia

Salary: $96,900.00 - $ Annually
Location : Richland County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 182558
Agency: Judicial Branch
Division: Disciplinary Counsel
Opening Date: 11/21/2025
Closing Date: 1/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Class Code:: AE1034
Position Number:: ,
Normal

Work Schedule:

: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Grade: Unclassified
Hiring Range - Min.: $96,900.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $
Opening Date: 11/21/2025
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: Qualified individuals may apply online eers.sc.gov. To be considered, all sections of the application must be fully completed, including detailed work history and education. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace or be reviewed in place of an incomplete application. Please note that supplemental questions are a required part of the application and must also be completed.
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Job Responsibilities

The South Carolina Judicial Branch (SCJB) is seeking a highly experienced Attorney IV to join the Office of Disciplinary Counsel (ODC).
Under very limited supervision and direction of Disciplinary Counsel, this position is responsible for preserving the integrity of the South Carolina judicial system by screening and investigating allegations of ethical misconduct or incapacity involving judges and lawyers, prosecuting formal charges, and performing related duties essential to the administration of justice.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Position

This job bulletin represents general duties for this position and is not intended to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Complaint Evaluation & Investigation

• Evaluate complaints and related information alleging ethical misconduct by judges or lawyers to determine whether to dismiss or open an investigation, in accordance with the Rules for Lawyer and Judicial Disciplinary Enforcement.
• Conduct investigations; draft notices of investigation; review responses; interview complainants, respondents, and witnesses; and obtain and analyze evidence including documents, statements, recordings, and bank records.
• Dismiss complaints when misconduct cannot be established by clear and convincing evidence or recommend letters of caution when appropriate.
• Draft, serve, and file petitions for interim suspension when misconduct or criminal charges pose a risk of harm to the public.
• Prepare and file Rule 28 petitions involving mental or physical incapacity when necessary.

Case Recommendations & Panel Proceedings

• Make recommendations to Investigative Panels of the Commission on Lawyer Conduct or Commission on Judicial Conduct regarding case disposition, including dismissal, caution letters, private admonitions, or recommendations for Supreme Court sanctions.
• Negotiate and draft agreements for discipline for submission to the appropriate Commission.
• Prepare panel summaries and appear before the Commissions as required.
• Request authorization to file formal charges; draft formal charges complaints; conduct discovery; prosecute formal disciplinary proceedings; and present opening statements, witness testimony, examinations, cross-examinations, closing arguments, and legal memoranda.
• Draft and submit Proposed Panel Reports; review final Panel Reports; and prepare exceptions when appropriate.

Supreme Court Filings & Appellate Work

• Prepare petitions, responses, and briefs in accordance with the South Carolina Appellate Court Rules.
• Conduct legal research and prepare written advocacy for review by the Supreme Court.
• Participate in oral argument before the Supreme Court when required.

Additional Legal & Administrative Duties

• Serve as opposing counsel in proceedings before the Committee on Character and Fitness regarding reinstatement or readmission of attorneys.
• Represent ODC at CLE programs, training, and presentations; prepare all necessary materials.
• Attend mandatory trainings and professional development programs.
• Maintain accurate records and notes in Time Matters or other case management systems.
• Meet with and provide…