Position Information
Job Series: Attorneys – Career Path
Classification: Attorney I
Class Code: LAT03P
Pay Grade: SPC03
Salary Range: $71,027 - $105,120
Job Summary
The Attorney I is an entry-level legal position within the state government, responsible for providing legal research, analysis, and support on various legal matters affecting state agencies. This role involves drafting legal documents, assisting with litigation, interpreting laws and regulations, and advising agency personnel on legal issues.
Primary Responsibilities
Conduct legal research on statutes, case law, administrative codes, and policies relevant to state operations.
Analyze and interpret laws, regulations, and legal precedents to provide recommendations for agency decision-making.
Assist in identifying legal risks and advising on appropriate courses of action.
Draft legal memoranda, contracts, opinions, and administrative rules under supervision.
Assist in preparing pleadings, motions, and other court-related documents as needed.
Review proposed legislation and policies for legal sufficiency and compliance with state laws.
Support agency attorneys in case preparation, depositions, and administrative hearings.
Gather and organize evidence, affidavits, and legal arguments for hearings and trials.
Monitor court rulings and regulatory changes that impact agency policies and procedures.
Provide legal guidance to agency staff on compliance with state and federal laws.
Assist in reviewing agency procedures, contracts, and policies for legal soundness.
Participate in training sessions to educate employees on legal requirements and best practices.
Knowledge and Skills
Fundamental knowledge of Arkansas state laws, administrative procedures, and legal principles.
Strong legal research and writing abilities to analyze and apply legal concepts effectively.
Familiarity with court procedures, government regulations, and statutory interpretation.
Proficiency in using legal research tools (Westlaw, LexisNexis) and office software (Microsoft Office Suite).
Ability to evaluate complex legal issues and present well-reasoned conclusions.
Strong written and verbal communication to convey legal information clearly.
Precision in drafting legal documents and reviewing laws for compliance.
Ability to assess legal risks and recommend effective solutions.
Capability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a fast-paced legal environment.
Minimum Qualifications
Must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Licensure/Certifications
Must be licensed as an Attorney in the State of Arkansas.
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
A PREFERRED CANDIDATE WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS: • Strong academic record with emphasis in administrative law, utility regulation, energy law, or related coursework. • Experience gained through law school clinics, externships, clerkships, or internships in litigation, regulatory, or government settings. • Demonstrated legal research and writing skills, including preparation of briefs, memoranda, or similar documents. To demonstrate writing skills, please submit a legal brief, court or administrative pleading, client sample letter explaining a legal issue, or another similar writing sample of five (5) pages or more in length. • Oral advocacy experience through moot court, trial advocacy, debate, or comparable activities.
