Civil Attorney

Division Mission:

The State’s Attorney’s Office in the Montana Department of Justice is dedicated to ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law on behalf of the people of Montana. The office includes the Solicitor General’s Office, Criminal Prosecution and Appellate Services, Civil Services and Consumer Protection. The functions within the office include defense of Montana’s laws as passed by the Legislature, constitutional challenges, determining legal sufficiency of ballot initiatives, prosecution of criminals, handling all phases of litigation from district court proceedings through appeal, and complex litigation of antitrust matters.

The Civil Attorney represents the State in civil litigation where the State has an interest, typically in cases challenging the constitutionality of State laws, or natural resource issues involving land, water, environmental (ESA, NEPA/MEPA), and Indian law. The bureau also advises other agencies on constitutional issues and litigation strategy.

The incumbent provides legal counsel to the divisions within the Department of Justice, drafts legal opinions for the review and signature of the Attorney General, and reviews administrative rules before publication. The Assistant Attorney General is responsible for independently handling all phases of complex civil litigation in state and federal district court and on appeal.

• Juris Doctor Degree.
• Admission to and maintenance of licensure from the State Bar of Montana.
• At least two years of civil litigation or judicial clerkship experience.
• If licensed in another state, must be able to become licensed to practice law in Montana within one year of hire. Individuals with 5 years of practice in another state in good standing are eligible to be admitted on motion. Bar Admission Rules
• Eligible to be admitted to practice in federal and state courts, as needed.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you have been practicing law for five years or less, please provide a copy of your law school transcript.

The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicant's qualification may include, but are not limited to, an evaluation of the résumé and cover letter, a structured interview, performance test, academic transcripts, reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.

• Criminal History Fingerprint Check
• Driving History

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays
• Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program

State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

This Organization Participates in E-Verify.

Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.