SENIOR ATTORNEY

Senior Attorney

Responds to oral and written requests for legal opinions regarding Florida's public records and open meetings laws. Processes requests (for public information or public records) from various sources including media, lawyers, advocacy groups, private citizens, and other state agency employees. Most requests require multiple written or oral communications with the requester, as well as multiple communications with department staff. Communications occur both during and after regular work hours. Seeks out and identifies potential legal problems in the department's planning, operation and administration, mainly in the areas of public records and open meetings laws. Acts as consultant to department management and other department personnel on these issues. Develops and presents various types of curriculum for instruction on Florida's public records and open meetings laws. Each curriculum is tailored to what is needed in different program areas within the department. Represents the department in litigation involving public records or open meetings. Also, assists regional attorneys who are involved in similar litigation. Negotiates and mediates public records disputes between the department and public records requestors. Works with department personnel in reviewing proposed legislation which may effect the operation or administration of the department. Reviews existing statutes, rules or caselaw for purpose of proposing any remedial legislation. Perform other related duties as assigned.