Senior Social Services Attorney

Description

Livingston County or New York State

The work involves responsibility for the performance of professional and supervisory legal work dealing with all aspects of the Social Services program. The incumbent oversees the planning, coordination, supervision, and management of the performance and activities of the legal unit. The incumbent provides legal counsel to the Livingston County Commissioner of Social Services and department staff. Primary functions include: representing the agency in court proceedings, developing and recommending policies and procedures in accordance with State and Federal laws and regulations and departmental needs, and maintaining standards of service in accordance with agency policies. Supervision is exercised over Social Services Attorneys and clerical staff. The work is performed under the general direction of the Commissioner of Social Services in accordance with established policies, with frequent exercise of independent judgment in planning and carrying out the details of the work.

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; including personnel matters Prepares pleadings and papers for matters in litigation; Represents the department in administrative hearings, family court, trial and appellate courts; Conducts legal research; Negotiates settlements; Prepares contracts and settlement agreements; Interprets laws and regulations, 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 and individuals; Represents the Commissioner of Social Services as directed; Provides community education and public relations regarding social services programs; 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; Prepares correspondence and reports as needed; and Performs other related duties.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Comprehensive knowledge of the common law and all 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; -Plan, direct and accept responsibility for work of others; -Analyze, appraise, and apply legal principles, facts and precedents to legal problems; -Develop and implement effective legal strategies, especially in litigation situations; -Prepare clear and accurate records; -Communicate effectively both orally and in writing; -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.

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

Salary: $117,000/year - $124,500/year

Apply online at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/livingstoncounty/jobs/5148846/senior-social-services-attorney?page=3&page@type=jobOpportunitiesJobs

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Senior Social Services Attorney