Attorney IV - Forensics (Central Office)

Job Responsibilities Are you passionate about making a real difference in people's lives? Join our team at the Office of Mental Health where we are dedicated to providing compassionate and accessible care to our community. We are seeking an Attorney IV who is motivated to help individuals and families navigate life's challenges and achieve long‑term wellness. If you want to use your skills to build a healthier, more resilient community, we encourage you to apply. This position is located at the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) – Office of Mental Health, Central Office, 400 Otarre Parkway, Cayce, SC 29033. Provide legal advice and assistance to the agency's Adult Forensic Programs, including court appearances, and present BHDD Forensic Program discharge recommendations in General Sessions. Serve as Chair of the Forensic Discharge Review Board and Member of the Administrative Forensic Review Board. Advise the agency regarding Forensic Inpatient and Forensic Evaluation Services programs waiting lists and assist in monitoring wait lists for both programs. Assist in negotiating discharge for patients with pending charges with solicitors and related parties. Crosstrain Office of General Counsel attorneys to represent the Department in Forensic hearings and FRB sessions. Provide assistance and guidance on court testimony and judicial process for the Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship Program. Serve as lead attorney liaison for the Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship Program. Supervise Legal Clerks and/or Legal Interns; hire law clerks. Serve as liaison between agency OGC and the University of South Carolina's Law Career Center. Review work of clerk/intern, including estate claim filings and office‑wide legal research. Approve time and leave for clerk/intern. Respond to questions of a legal nature from agency staff, public officials, courts, attorneys, public agencies, medical providers, and the public about agency operations, inpatient and outpatient facilities, and applicable law and policies. Work with the Division of Financial Services and Procurement on all contract‑related matters. Minimum and Additional Requirements A juris doctor degree or its equivalent from an accredited law school and experience as a practicing attorney. A member in good standing with the South Carolina Bar and completion of the 403 requirements. At least ten (10) years of experience as an attorney. Additional Requirements Ability to attend meetings or conduct trainings outside of usual business hours. Ability to travel within South Carolina. Frequent in‑state travel will be necessary. Preferred Qualifications Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish (or another language) are a plus. Post‑Hire Must Haves Knowledge of the laws of South Carolina and general case, statutory and common law. Knowledge of judicial and quasi‑judicial procedures and rules of guidance. Good verbal and written communication skills with emphasis on attention to written details. Ability to interpret and apply laws in court decisions. Ability to analyze facts, evidence and legal instruments. Ability to express conclusions and arguments clearly and logically. Ability to plan and direct the activities of a legal staff. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Benefits Health, dental, vision, long‑term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information. 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year. 15 days sick leave per year. 13 paid holidays. Paid parental leave. S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation). Retirement benefit choices State Retirement Plan (SCRS). State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP). *Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay. #J-18808-Ljbffr