Senior Social Services Attorney

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.  The incumbent will have agency-wide responsibility for assisting the Commissioner in the implementation of the mission of the department through participation in the planning, development and attainment of objectives in coordination with those of the entire agency.   The incumbent also works closely with other members of the administrative team for the purpose of short and long term planning and general agency operation and may be assigned additional functional areas to oversee.   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 of the department and requirements of the State of New York and Federal government, with frequent exercise of independent judgment in planning and carrying out the details of the work.  Does related work as required.

• 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 which are consistent with the laws and regulations, including, but not limited to:  hiring, training, performance appraisals, and discipline;
• Prepares pleadings and papers for matters in litigation involving the department;
• Represents the department in administrative hearings, family court, trial and appellate courts;
• Conducts legal research;
• Negotiates settlements;
• Prepares contracts and settlement agreements;
• Interprets Federal, State and local laws and regulations as they relate to service programs, 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, public and private, and officials and citizens;
• Represents the Commissioner of Social Services at conferences, public meetings, etc. as directed;
• Provides community education and public relations regarding social services programs, which may include development of written material and public speaking;
• 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 in the operation and development of local district business;
• Prepares correspondence and reports as needed; and
• Performs other related duties.

 
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

1. Comprehensive knowledge of the common law and of County, State and Federal laws as they apply to child and social welfare;
2. Good trial skills and knowledge of civil court procedures and the rules of evidence;
3. Good knowledge of the general functions and administrative activities of the County Department of Social Services;
4. Good supervisory skills and knowledge;
5. Ability to establish and maintain successful working relationships with people;
6. Ability to plan, direct and accept responsibility for work of others;
7. Ability to analyze, appraise, and apply legal principles, facts and precedents to legal problems;
8. Ability to develop and implement effective legal strategies, especially in litigation situations;
9. Ability to prepare clear and accurate records;
10. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
11. Ability to interpret and represent the goals of the agency;
12. Tact and courtesy;
13. Good professional judgment; and
14. Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 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.
 
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
Applicants must possess a valid New York State driver’s license and maintain same throughout appointment.  Must also have access to reliable transportation which may be used to perform job responsibilities.

Salary : $114,750 - $119,500