Job Description

Assists the General Counsel in providing legal services and guiding the operations of all areas of juvenile services, programs and facilities for the Juvenile Department. Provides high-level legal consultation, advice, and representation to the staff of the Juvenile Department and Juvenile Board in conjunction with the Civil District Attorney’s office. (This position will not perform any of the three (3) listed civil duties statutorily prescribed to the District Attorney’s office without consultation with the District Attorney: Eminent Domain, ROW and civil litigation).
1. Provides legal services and representation for legislative and contractual issues affecting the Juvenile Department. Confers with and provides legal advice to the Juvenile Department Director and Juvenile Board; attend meetings, and participates in closed sessions of the Juvenile Board. Reviews and approves all Juvenile Board related materials. Resolves complex, critical legal issues involving the Juvenile Department, defense attorneys, other agencies, staff and determines the appropriate legal direction or action.

2. Supports General Counsel and establishes department policies, procedures, specifications, terms and conditions, and performance standards for the selection and evaluation of supply vendors, contractors, subcontracts; works with all parties (vendors, departments, etc.) to resolve all issues, concerns, discrepancies.

3. Confers, trains and consults with county administrative personnel and/or juvenile staff to address legal issues and provide training on legal topics as code of ethics, PREA, family code and legal liabilities; modifies operational strategies, policies and tactics; formulates responses to changing internal and external environmental conditions; develops tactical plans and long range goals and objectives.

4. Evaluates assigned cases; conducts legal research, gathers and prepares evidence and exhibits. Files responsive pleadings and makes court appearances in surrounding counties related to subpoenas for Juvenile records on behalf of the Juvenile Department; formulates opinions and responses and represents the department in negotiations and mediation.

5. Maintains effective communication with staff, Juvenile Board, elected officials, county staff, members of Texas Legislature and Dallas Congressional Delegation.

6. Assists in compiling data for the department’s legislative efforts, reviews proposed legislation and recommends the Juvenile Department’s position. Organizes and presents pertinent criminal justice and state legislation to advisory boards, Juvenile Board and Commissioners.

7. Coordinates with the District Attorney’s Office on legal issues involving the Juvenile Department.

8. Other duties as assigned Education, Experience and Training:
Graduation from an accredited law school with a current license to practice law in the State of Texas. Two (2) years and six (6) months of experience practicing law in civil matters with extensive knowledge of the public sector.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Requires a current license to practice law in the State of Texas. Strong communications skills and the ability to work independently.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:
Standard office environment.