Social Services Attorney

This is professional legal work involving responsibility for providing legal counsel to the Livingston County Commissioner of Social Services (Commissioner) and department staff.   Primary functions include, but are not limited to: representing the department 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 departmental policies.  The incumbent works closely with other members of the administrative team.  Work is performed in the office and in the field.   Supervision may be exercised over the work of subordinate personnel.  The work is performed under the general direction of the Senior Social Services Attorney and 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.  A Social Services Attorney does related work as assigned.

• Provides legal advice to the Commissioner and departmental staff;
• 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 department use and advises the Commissioner of Social Services;
• Coordinates with subordinate staff in administering and rendering services to clients which are consistent with the laws and regulations;
• May assist with the hiring, training and performance appraisals of subordinate personnel;
• Participates regularly with department staff in individual and group meetings;
• Maintains cooperative relationships with other agencies, public and private, and officials and citizens;
• May represent the Department 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 the Senior Social Services Attorney or the 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 as assigned.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:  Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of common law and of County, State and Federal 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 Livingston County Department of Social Services; ability to analyze, appraise and apply legal principles, facts and precedents to legal problems; ability to develop and implement effective legal strategies, especially in litigation situations; ability to prepare clear and accurate records; ability to establish and maintain successful working relationships with others; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; ability to interpret and represent the goals of the department; tact and courtesy; good professional judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

RESIDENCY: Candidates must have been legal residents of the following jurisdiction(s) for at least four months immediately preceding the date of the written test:

• Livingston County, or
• One of the following Counties: Allegany, Genesee, Monroe, Ontario, Steuben or Wyoming

Applicants must meet all requirements described in the following table in order to be approved for examination and/or appointment:

Qualification Option #	1
Training/Education	Possession of a Juris Doctor degree[1].
General experience	None required.
Supervisory experience	N.A.
License/Certification	Admitted to practice and in good standing as an attorney and counselor at law before the courts of the State of New York; AND Possession of a valid New York State driver’s license.
Other requirements	See Special Qualifications below.

Social Services Attorney – C in all divisions

1. Must maintain authorization to practice law in New York State throughout employment.
2. An appropriate driver’s license must be maintained throughout employment.
3. Access to reliable transportation, which may be used to perform job duties, must be maintained throughout employment.
4. A driving record evidencing safe and responsible vehicle operation is required.
5. Must authorize and execute any necessary releases to enable the appointing authority to verify licensure and driving history involving violations and/or crimes.

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

PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENT NOTICE:
An individual who receives a provisional appointment must take the examination for the position title on the next occasion it is offered. In order to be eligible for a permanent appointment to the position, the provisional appointee must pass the exam and be ranked 1, 2, 3, or be tied in score with the individual ranked number 3 of those who are willing to accept appointment to the position. It should be understood that even if the provisional appointee is eligible for appointment, the employer may choose another candidate to fill the position on a permanent basis. Questions regarding provisional appointments should be directed to the Livingston County Human Resources Department. 

Salary : $95,000 - $99,000