Lead Health Litigation Counsel

South Dakota State Government; Pierre (SD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

South Dakota Department of Health is seeking an experienced attorney to serve as lead litigation counsel and provide legal support for the Medical Cannabis Program, as well as regulatory expertise across the department. Responsibilities include prosecuting regulatory violations and advising staff on legislation and rules.

The role requires eight+ years of litigation experience, SD bar admission or eligibility, and a strong background in criminal and civil practice, evidence and administrative

Qualifications

• Eight or more years of litigation experience.
• Knowledge of criminal and civil practices and procedures.
• State administrative practices and procedures.
• Legal research techniques and technology tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal opinions and advice to program and department staff.
• Serve as lead counsel in civil litigation matters involving the department.
• Represent the department before the Office of Hearing Examiners and in trial and appellate courts.
• Draft legislation and administrative rules.
• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and appellate filings.
• Participate in lobbying activities as needed.
• Conduct discovery, take and defend depositions, and manage case strategy from inception through resolution.
• Handle evidentiary hearings, trials, and oral arguments.
• Draft program policies and procedures.
• Assist with Request for Proposals processes.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state statutes and administrative rules.
• Participate in hearings related to regulatory actions involving patient registration and medical cannabis establishments.
• Assist in drafting contracts and joint powers agreements.
• Collaborate with other state agencies.
• Provide guidance on administrative rules, rule promulgation, and legislative matters.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Litigation experience

Legal research

Regulatory compliance

Drafting pleadings

Oral advocacy

Education

Juris Doctorate

South Dakota Bar admission or eligibility

Job description

South Dakota Department of Health is seeking an experienced attorney to serve as lead litigation counsel and provide legal support for the Medical Cannabis Program, as well as regulatory expertise across the department. Responsibilities include prosecuting regulatory violations and advising staff on legislation and rules.

The role requires eight+ years of litigation experience, SD bar admission or eligibility, and a strong background in criminal and civil practice, evidence and administrative