Assistant General Counsel IV

Assistant General Counsel Level IV (Q80D) - $90,000.00 per year + full State benefits plan Travel is EXTENSIVE. Must possess a valid driver's license and must maintain required car insurance. Minimum Qualifications: Level IV: Education and Experience requirements at this level consist of a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school, a license to practice law in the State of Oklahoma, an active membership with the Oklahoma Bar Association, and seven years of legal experience including two years of litigation, or agency-defined experience in the practice of law e.g. tax, or supervisory experience. Job Responsibilities This position is to provide professional legal services and representation to carry out the adoptions of children who are in DHS custody whose goal is adoption. This attorney is responsible for representing adoptive parents from the moment the case plan becomes adoption to the point of finalization by the court. The position will involve the preparation of legal materials necessary to complete an adoption as well as coordination with child welfare staff to ensure all accompanying documentation is identified, completed, and organized for inclusion with the legal filings. Also, this position serves in a liaison capacity with the prospective adoptive parents as well as other parties involved in the adoption process including, but not limited to judicial personnel. Handles all legal aspects of adoptions involving children in DHS custody from case assignment through finalization. Prepares, reviews, and files pleadings, petitions, orders, and other legal documents necessary to complete adoptions in compliance with Oklahoma law and applicable federal requirements. Works collaboratively with child welfare staff, courts, adoptive families, tribal representatives, and other parties involved in the adoption process. Manages cases involving the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), including compliance with notice requirements, tribal intervention, placement preferences, and jurisdictional considerations. Coordinates and processes interstate adoptions pursuant to the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC), including review of required documentation and communication with out-of-state agencies and attorneys. Appears in court hearings and provides legal representation related to adoption proceedings and associated child welfare matters. Maintains organized case files and ensures all required documentation is complete, accurate, and timely filed. Provides guidance and legal consultation regarding adoption procedures, permanency planning, and applicable child welfare laws and policies. OKDHS is a Fair Chance Employer. This is a position in the Oklahoma Civil Service. #J-18808-Ljbffr