Legislative Research Attorney

Hawaii Senate; Honolulu (HI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Hawaii State Senate is seeking a detail-oriented Research Attorney to conduct legal research, analyze policy, and support legislative operations under the direction of the Director. The role performs high-level legal research, drafts key legislative documents, and conducts reviews of proposed legislation and committee reports.

Qualified candidates will hold a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school, and membership in the Hawaii State Bar is desirable.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Active Hawaii State Bar membership desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough legal research and draft memoranda, briefs, and analysis on legislative issues.
• Perform legal analysis and review of drafted legislation, amendments, and committee reports.
• Assist in crafting bills, resolutions, and policy proposals using legislative drafting techniques.
• Handle sensitive policy matters and internal communications with strict confidentiality.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Discretion/confidentiality

Legislative drafting techniques

Legislative process

Integrity

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Job description

Description

The Hawaii State Senate is seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Research Attorneys to conduct legal research, analyze policy, and support legislative operations. Operating under the direction of the Director, the Research Attorney performs high-level legal research, drafts key legislative documents, and conducts legal reviews of proposed legislation and committee reports.
This role requires strong analytical skills, an understanding of state and local government operations, and the ability to communicate complex legal matters clearly and concisely.

Examples of Duties

• Legal Research & Drafting: Conduct thorough legal research and prepare legal memoranda, briefs, and analysis on various legislative and policy issues.

• Legislative Review: Perform legal analysis and review of drafted legislation, amendments, and committee reports to ensure legal soundness and clarity.
• Legislative Assistance:Utilize legislative drafting techniques to assist in crafting bills, resolutions, and policy proposals.
• Confidentiality & Discretion: Handle sensitive policy matters, legal inquiries, and internal communications with strict confidentiality.

Typical Qualifications

Education

• Required: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

Desirable

• Active member of the Hawaii State Bar Association.

Core Competencies

• Understanding of legislative drafting techniques and the legislative process.
• Communication: Exceptional written and oral communication skills; ability to convey legal principles clearly, concisely, and effectively to non-legal stakeholders.
• Analytical Thinking: Strong legal reasoning and critical analysis skills.
• Integrity: Proven ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.

Other

• Must be able to work in-person at the Hawaii State Capitol in Honolulu, Oahu.
• Open to U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents.