Attorney

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Brief Job Description:

This position is an attorney in the Enforcement Department. The Enforcement Department is one of seven departments in the Legal Services Division of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel. The Enforcement Department provides legal support related to HHS sanctions against facilities, programs, and services, including reviewing and drafting notices, correspondence, and guidance documents; interpreting state and federal laws, regulations, and rules; rendering legal advice and counsel to HHS agency personnel; providing legal representation in contested case proceedings, and overseeing enforcement litigation in district courts.

The position serves as legal counsel for the Health and Human Services Commission and the Department of State Health Services and is responsible for representing HHSC and DSHS in contested cases governed by the Administrative Procedure Act before the State Office of Administrative Hearings and the Health and Human Services Commission Appeals Division. The position is required to independently handle a busy docket of cases and should be experienced in and knowledgeable of litigation. The attorney advises program staff daily and helps them evaluate the legal sufficiency of proposed sanctions. The attorney also routinely provides training and consultation to HHSC staff regarding hearing processes.

Essential Job Functions:

This attorney position provides legal representation, consultation, and support to program areas across the Health and Human Services system. Attorneys are required to: consult with program staff on complex issues of law; review, develop, and conduct training; research and brief relevant legal issues; review policies, rules, regulations, and forms for compliance with legal standards; manage caseloads; prepare cases for trial; and represent HHSC at hearings. Attorneys are required to independently represent clients at hearings governed by the Administrative Procedures Act from docketing to completion, including: analyzing evidence and preparing case strategies; preparing and serving discovery requests; responding to discovery; preparing and responding to motions; identifying and preparing witnesses; conducting depositions; and representing the agency at hearing.  

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

*Knowledge of Administrative Procedures Act as well as civil trial practice
*Skilled in legal research, writing and analysis
*Skilled in handling multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines
*Skilled in demonstrating sound judgment *Skilled in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions
*Skilled in working collaboratively and cooperatively with client representatives, other government employees, and stakeholder groups
*Ability to organize and manage multiple tasks of varying priorities and to make efficient use of time and resources
*Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences both verbally and in writing
*Ability to maintain effective and collegial relations with all levels of management, staff and the public
*Ability to analyze complex factual and legal issues related to a wide variety of federal and state laws
*Ability to use computer applications and databases related to essential functions of the job, including computer-assisted legal research, and word processing software.  

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Applicants must be licensed and in good standing to practice law in Texas.  

Initial Screening Criteria:

Must have a JD or LLB degree from an accredited law school and at least two years of experience in the practice of law. Administrative law experience preferred.

Additional Information:

Experience in civil trials and administrative hearings under the Administrative Procedure Act is preferred.

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Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework.  Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.