Legal Assistant III

Career Opportunities: Legal Assistant III (17140) Posting ID: 17140 Agency: Health & Human Services Comm Department: LSD Litigation 3 Job Title: Legal Assistant III Posting Number: 17140 Salary Range: $5,881.29-$5,881.29 Pay Frequency: Monthly Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20 Shift: Day Telework: Eligible for Telework Travel: Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Location: Austin, 4601 W Guadalupe St Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage. About the Department The Litigation Department of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel works with the Office of Attorney General (OAG) to prosecute and defend lawsuits and administrative actions concerning employment decisions, tort claims, agency rules and policies, alleged constitutional violations, federal and state statutes and regulations, and breach of contracts. The department serves as the point of contact between the OAG and HHSC and its employees, analyzing claims, evaluating and managing risk, developing strategy, assisting with and drafting pleadings and discovery, preparing cases for trial, and tracking all pending or potential litigation against HHS or its employees. Essential Job Functions Provides support to attorneys assigned to handle lawsuits and other matters involving the agency: preparing and editing legal documents and correspondence; organizing case files, indexes, exhibits, affidavits, and other evidence; drafting and proofreading written responses to interrogatories, requests for production, requests for admissions, requests for information, and subpoenas; calendaring and monitoring all case activity and deadlines; maintaining contact with individuals and program areas involved in a case or matter; scheduling depositions and witness meetings; preparing attorneys for meetings with complainants, witnesses, and expert witnesses; accurately storing and maintaining documents in electronic case files; attending witness interviews, depositions and other meetings, as needed; retrieving documents from court records; conducting investigations; preparing chronologies, fact summaries, and witness files; and drafting status reports. (50%) Enters accurate case information and other records in GAVEL, the HHS Office of Chief Counsel electronic case information system. (20%) Uses word processing to prepare, revise, format and finalize a wide variety of documents, including pleadings, motions, briefs, memorandums, petitions, deposition summaries, and other legal correspondence and documents as needed and in accordance with established timeframes. Reviews, edits and proofreads documents to ensure accuracy of spelling, grammar, legal citations and formatting. Routes document drafts to attorneys for approval within established timeframes. Utilizes templates, processes and procedures. (20%) Provides records management support to the HHS Office of Chief Counsel staff; identifies, analyzes, and organizes records and archives; makes recommendations regarding appropriate disposition of records according to the approved HHS records retention schedule; prepares reports, inventories, indexes, and aids to assist staff with accessing records. (10%) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge: legal terminology; state and federal laws, rules, and regulations; research methods and techniques; administrative and court procedures; the legislative process; and public notice requirements. Skills: understanding, processing and summarizing information; meticulous and thorough; acute attention to detail; proficient in the use of office equipment, use of a computer and applicable software; ability to conduct research; to draft, prepare, and interpret legal documents; to evaluate and relate findings to cases in question; to conduct investigations; and to communicate effectively and efficiently. Produces highly accurate work. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: None required. Initial Screening Criteria A paralegal degree is preferred. At least two years of Legal Assistant experience in litigation required. Three years of Legal Experience in litigation preferred. Veterans and Military Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but are not limited to those listed in this posting. All active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office – Job Descriptions. ADA Accommodations In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the online application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at View phone number on click.appcast.io. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview. Pre‑Employment Checks and Work Eligibility Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks. HHSC uses E‑Verify. You must bring your I‑9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I‑9 Form. Telework Disclaimer This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr