Public Records Staff Attorney: Access & Appeals Expert

Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 53,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Massachusetts is seeking a Staff Attorney in the Public Records Division to administer the Massachusetts Public Records Law, review appeals, draft determinations, and provide legal support to the Supervisor. The role involves legal research, advising on matters of first impression, and trainings for records officers across municipalities and agencies.

The position requires strong legal writing, timely communication, and the ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate timely and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Strong legal writing skills.
• Law Review or Journal experience preferred.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Ability to handle confidential material in a discreet and professional manner.

Responsibilities

• Performs complex legal research involving state and federal case-law, statutes, regulations, Attorney General Opinions, Executive Orders and prior Supervisor Determinations.
• Review appeals from public records requesters who have been denied access to government records.
• Draft administrative Public Records Law determinations on issues including privacy, police records, settlement agreements, government contracts.
• Responds to inquiries from records custodians, records requesters and general public relating to the Public Records Law.
• Provides legal advice to the Supervisor on matters of first impression.
• Conducts trainings for municipal and agency records access officers and others as requested.
• Provides general legal support for the Division, including the Commissions Section.
• Some in-state travel may be required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Legal writing

Communication skills

Multitasking

Discretion

Law Review experience

Education

Massachusetts Bar admission

Juris Doctor degree

Job description

Commonwealth of Massachusetts is seeking a Staff Attorney in the Public Records Division to administer the Massachusetts Public Records Law, review appeals, draft determinations, and provide legal support to the Supervisor. The role involves legal research, advising on matters of first impression, and trainings for records officers across municipalities and agencies.

The position requires strong legal writing, timely communication, and the ability to manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced