Montana Civil Litigation Attorney — Public Sector

State of Montana; Helena (MT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Montana, Department of Justice, is seeking a Civil Attorney to represent the State in complex civil litigation. The role involves advising agencies, drafting opinions, and handling all phases of civil actions in state and federal courts.

The incumbent will provide legal counsel to divisions within the Department of Justice and oversee litigation strategy and appellate work as needed. Strong qualifications in Montana licensure and civil practice are essential.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor Degree.
• Admission to and maintenance of licensure from the State Bar of Montana.
• At least two years of civil litigation or judicial clerkship experience.
• If licensed in another state, must be able to become licensed to practice law in Montana within one year of hire. Individuals with 5 years of practice in another state in good standing are eligible to be admitted on motion.
• Eligible to be admitted to practice in federal and state courts, as needed.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Responsibilities

• Represent the State in civil litigation where the State has an interest, typically in cases challenging the constitutionality of State laws, or natural resource issues involving land, water, environmental (ESA, NEPA/MEPA), and Indian law.
• Advise other agencies on constitutional issues and litigation strategy.
• Draft legal opinions for the Attorney General and review administrative rules before publication.
• Independently handle all phases of complex civil litigation in state and federal district court and on appeal.

Skills

Civil litigation experience

Judicial clerkship experience

Montana bar admission within 1 year

Experience in federal and state courts

Case-by-case qualification flexibility

Education

Juris Doctor Degree

Job description

The State of Montana, Department of Justice, is seeking a Civil Attorney to represent the State in complex civil litigation. The role involves advising agencies, drafting opinions, and handling all phases of civil actions in state and federal courts.

The incumbent will provide legal counsel to divisions within the Department of Justice and oversee litigation strategy and appellate work as needed. Strong qualifications in Montana licensure and civil practice are essential.