What are the responsibilities and job description for the Public Records Staff Attorney position at Secretary of State?
ABOUT THIS POSITION:
The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is seeking candidates for a Staff Attorney position in the Public Records Division (Division). The Division (Division) administers the updated Massachusetts Public Records Law. Under the authority of the Supervisor of Records (Supervisor), the Division processes and issues determinations on appeals from petitioners denied access to government records; responds to inquires involving the interpretation of public records statutes and regulations; and provides training to government employees and their agents throughout Massachusetts. The Staff Attorney will work in fast-paced, deadline driven environment and will be responsible for providing legal support to the Supervisor and Division in administering the Massachusetts Public Records Law.
REPRESENTATIVE TASKS:
- Performs complex legal research involving state and federal case-law, statutes, regulations, Attorney General Opinions, Executive Orders and prior Supervisor Determinations;
- Reviews appeals from public records requesters who have been denied access to government records;
- Drafts administrative Public Records Law determinations on issues including privacy, police records, settlement agreements, government contracts ;
- Responds to inquiries from records custodians, records requesters and general public relating to the Public Records Law;
- Provides legal advice to the Supervisor on matters of first impression;
- Conducts trainings for municipal and agency records access officers and others as requested;
- Provides general legal support for the Division, including the Commissions Section;
- Some in-state travel may be required;
- Performs other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- Ability to communicate timely and effectively, both orally and in writing;
- Strong legal writing skills;
- Law Review or Journal experience preferred;
- Ability to handle multiple assignments and meet deadlines;
- Ability to handle confidential material in a discreet and professional manner.
About us
The Secretary of the Commonwealth's office comprises 23 departments across 19 locations around Massachusetts.
As the third-ranking constitutional officer in Massachusetts, the Secretary of the Commonwealth serves as the chief election officer, chief information officer, and chief securities regulator in Massachusetts. Additionally, the office is charged with registering business entities and lobbyists, distributing grants for historic preservation, safeguarding the state's public records and artifacts, and much more.
Whatever your background or area of interest, there is a place for you at the Secretary of the Commonwealth's office.
Statement of Diversity and Anti-Discrimination
The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As a representative of the Commonwealth and its residents, the Office strives to ensure that those working in our office reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. The Office encourages applicants from a broad spectrum of backgrounds to apply for positions.
It is the policy of The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Disability Accommodation
Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We will gladly assist applicants in need of an accommodation. For assistance, contact ADA Coordinator Michael Owens at 617-312-3272 or michael.owens@sec.state.ma.us.
Covid-19 Vaccination Requirement for Employment
As a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption.
Remote work
This position is not eligible for remote work.
Total Compensation
As an employee of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are offered a great career opportunity to influence a wide spectrum of services to the diverse populations we serve - but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that you should consider towards your overall compensation, including:
- 75% state paid medical insurance premium
- Reasonable Dental and Vision Plans
- Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Assistance programs
- Low cost basic and optional life insurance
- Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan
- 12 paid holidays per year and Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time
- Tuition benefits for employee at state colleges and universities
- Short-Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options
- Incentive-based Wellness Programs
- Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program
- Starting salary $62,500
How to Apply:
To apply please send: 1) a copy of your resume 2) a cover letter 3) 3 references to careers@sec.state.ma.us
DO NOT APPLY VIA MASS.GOV
J.D. degree;
- Admission to the Massachusetts Bar preferred, but will consider recent graduates.