Legislative Attorney: Policy Research & Bill Drafting

Sdsoybean; Pierre (SD); On-site; USD 74,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Legislative Research Council in Pierre, SD is seeking a permanent, full-time Legislative Attorney to assist legislators with accurate, objective legal research and writing. The role requires an active SD State Bar license or eligibility and a commitment to nonpartisanship and confidentiality.

Responsibilities include drafting and editing bills, advising on legal questions, and staffing committees during sessions, with emphasis on clear communication and rigorous analysis for legislators and

Qualifications

• Must have a Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active license in good standing with the State Bar of South Dakota, or ability to become eligible and admitted within one year of employment.
• Ability to remain objective and nonpartisan in relation to all legislative matters, maintain confidentiality, and handle politically sensitive work.

Responsibilities

• Compiling data and conducting general and legal research for legislative committees and individual legislators and presenting alternative solutions.
• Conferring with and advising legislators on legislative legal questions.
• Drafting and editing bills, resolutions, and amendments to implement legislators’ ideas.
• Staffing standing committees during legislative sessions and preparing committee reports.
• Staffing interim committees and preparing background materials and final reports.
• Reviewing administrative rules for form, style, and statutory compliance; and
• Researching and writing issue memoranda and developing resources for review by the Legislature and the public.

Skills

Strong writing skills

Research and analytical skills

Clear communication with legislators

Objective and nonpartisan

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

The Legislative Research Council in Pierre, SD is seeking a permanent, full-time Legislative Attorney to assist legislators with accurate, objective legal research and writing. The role requires an active SD State Bar license or eligibility and a commitment to nonpartisanship and confidentiality.

Responsibilities include drafting and editing bills, advising on legal questions, and staffing committees during sessions, with emphasis on clear communication and rigorous analysis for legislators and