HSC General Counsel

About the role

The Division of Legal Services within the South Dakota Department of Social Services is seeking to hire a highly motivated and experienced attorney to serve as a Litigation Supervisor. The duties of the Litigation Supervisor would include representing the Department on a wide variety of legal issues including abuse and neglect of children, child support, childcare, behavioral health, Medicaid, and Medicaid recovery as well as assisting with the supervision of other attorneys within the division. The Litigation Supervisor represents the Department throughout the state in litigation before the Supreme Court, Circuit Court, and the Office of Administrative Hearings. Our Culture: Family focused. Person centered. At our organization it is the belief that every South Dakota family has the right to be safe and secure. We believe in respecting individuals and cultural differences by treating people with dignity, fairness and respect. Our Department: Build Strong Families, South Dakota’s Foundation and Our Future. The Department of Social Services aims to strengthen and support individuals and families, connecting them with resources to foster independent and healthy lives. Our Team: Dependable. Committed. Compassionate. As a member of the Department of Social Services you will be part of a team of professionals who are dependable, committed, and compassionate. We believe collaborative communication, teamwork, partnerships, and trust are foundational to the delivery of essential family services.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Department of Social Services in litigation, including administrative hearings and circuit court.
• Plan and execute litigation.
• Prepare witnesses.
• Prepare motions, briefs, and exhibits.
• Argue cases.
• Conduct research and render advice in support of all DSS divisions as specific questions and issues arise.
• Take a leadership role within the Division of Legal Services and the Department.
• Participate in strategic planning and other agency-wide initiatives.
• Assist with management of other staff members.
• Serve as a liaison to share information across interdepartmental and interdisciplinary teams and workgroups.
• Effectively communicate regarding various philosophies, communication styles, and goals of the Division and Department.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited law school.
• Member of the South Dakota State Bar or willing and qualified to become a member.
• Qualify for appointment as a Special Assistant Attorney General.
• Admission and/or experience with tribal courts is a plus.

Skills

• Display high standards of ethical conduct.
• Communicate effectively and efficiently.