Legal Counsel/Appeals Officer (Attorney 2)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania; Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Attorney to join its Office of Open Records. This full-time position offers the opportunity to engage in vital legal work, including adjudicating appeals and conducting legal research. With a focus on public service, the role allows for telework flexibility while maintaining a strong commitment to legal integrity. Candidates should possess a deep understanding of administrative law and judicial procedures, ensuring they can navigate complex legal matters effectively. If you are passionate about serving the public and have the necessary legal expertise, this role is an exciting opportunity to make a difference.

Qualifications

• Two years of professional legal experience required.
• Graduation from an accredited law school is essential.

Responsibilities

• Adjudicate administrative appeals under Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law.
• Conduct legal research and draft documents on complex legal issues.
• Engage with citizens and agency representatives in quasi-judicial hearings.

Skills

Legal Research

Drafting Legal Documents

Understanding of Common Law

Judicial Procedures

Administrative Law

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

The Pennsylvania Office of Open Records (OOR) is seeking a skilled Attorney to perform essential non-supervisory legal work within its jurisdiction. The role involves handling a range of tasks from routine to moderately complex legal issues, with personal accountability for significant legal matters, operating independently under the guidance of senior attorneys and executives. Candidates with legal expertise and a dedication to public service are encouraged to apply.

In this position, you will adjudicate administrative appeals under Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (RTKL). Responsibilities include conducting legal research, drafting documents on complex legal issues affecting public access to government records, engaging with private citizens and agency representatives, holding quasi-judicial hearings, and reviewing documents in camera. You will also assist with legal inquiries, provide opinions on legislation and regulations, participate in mediation, draft legal documents, and represent the OOR in state appellate courts and courts of common pleas. A strong understanding of common law, state and federal laws related to administrative functions, judicial procedures, and evidence rules is essential.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

1. Full-time employment
2. Work hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 60-minute lunch
3. Telework: Up to 4 days a week from an approved, secure location inside Pennsylvania, with the option to report to Harrisburg if telework is not possible
4. Salary: Starting at $75,678 annually for new employees to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
5. Further communication will be via email; please check your spam/junk folders

Qualifications:

Minimum Experience and Training:

• Two years of professional legal experience and graduation from an accredited law school, or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training

Post-Employment Requirements:

• Must be certified for admission to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court Bar and maintain membership throughout employment

Application Process:

• Provide relevant, detailed experience and education directly on the application; resumes and cover letters will not be reviewed
• Attach unofficial transcripts if claiming educational qualifications
• Submit applications by the closing date; late submissions will not be accepted
• Failure to comply with application instructions may disqualify candidates

Additional Information:

• Veterans' preference applies; more info at www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx
• Disability accommodations available upon request; contact the interviewer in advance
• The Commonwealth promotes diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply