Counsel II

DescriptionThe Department of State Police, Legal Department is seeking a Counsel II.The incumbent will perform legal and related administrative duties in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Represent the Department in various legal and administrative matters, review and respond to public records requests, requests for body-worn camera video, tort and other claims, in addition to assisting with the preparation of reports, analyzing data and create related work, ensuring that all work is performed in accordance with the policy and procedures of the Department and in a timely manner.Other duties include but are not limited to:1. Advise agency staff on legal matters by interpreting laws, rules, regulations, judicial decisions and opinions related to agency operations. This includes educating staff on the laws, rules, and policies governing agency operations; providing legal advice to agency staff when resolving problems and determining appropriate actions; monitoring actions of agency staff to identify legal issues or problems; and reviewing contracts to ensure that all agency activities comply with applicable laws.2. Obtain information needed to represent the agency in dispute resolution by conducting research and analysis of the applicable laws, statutes and regulations, and by reviewing case files, case history, and evidence submitted by opposing parties to understand the facts and issues and to determine the best course of action.3. Mediate or negotiate with opposing parties, when appropriate, to reach resolution, avoid litigation, and mitigate damages for the agency.4. Prepare cases and represent the agency in dispute resolution by determining case strategy; conducting discovery; identifying and presenting the most relevant and appropriate evidence and witnesses; responding to evidence and witnesses presented by opposing parties; and instructing parties and witnesses on procedural format to ensure that all testimony and evidence are properly presented.5. Draft administrative, court, and other legal documents (e.g. memos, decisions, contracts, deeds, pleadings, regulations, opinions, comments) to communicate information to interested parties and to record outcomes and decisions, ensuring that such documents are complete, accurate, available for future review and in compliance with law.6. Advocate in courts or at administrative hearings on behalf of the clients and/or the agency to ensure the consistent application of laws, to represent the interests of the agency; develop legal strategy and effectively and efficiently manage the flow of cases.7. Provide information to the public by answering inquiries regarding agency functions, services, rules, and procedures to accurately represent the agency.8. Manage and monitor individual cases, assignments and projects to ensure timely resolution of cases and to contribute to the achievement of overall agency goals.9. Communicate with representatives of other agencies, including the Legislature, and collaborate with cross-functional or cross-agency teams and stakeholders to share information, resolve issues and develop or implement new programs.10. Draft new policies and regulations or amendments to existing policies and regulations, based on legal research and agency needs, to streamline agency practices, support operational efficiencies and ensure agency compliance with laws.11. Present memoranda supporting or opposing legislation affecting agency operations.12. Performs related duties as required.QualificationsFirst consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the Massachusetts Bar and (A) at least three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience in the practice of law.Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid Motor Vehicle Drivers License at a Class level specific to assignment. Comprehensive BenefitsWhen you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.Job Field: Legal ServicesOrganization: Department of State PoliceSchedule: Full-timeShift: Day