Judicial Staff Attorney

Announcement Information

Interested persons must submit a resume and writing sample to: smithc@oakgov.com

Job Summary

Under limited direction, assesses and analyzes complex legal issues, advises parties regarding the relative strengths of their respective positions, and participates in negotiations to facilitate settlement of issues, adjusting strategy as necessary. Performs computerized and manual legal research, writes pre-hearing reports, makes recommendations regarding options for Judicial action, and drafts Opinions and Orders involving complex civil and criminal matters. Assists in coordinating chamber operations and corresponding docket to ensure compliance with statutes, case law, Administrative Orders, Chief Judge directives, and Court Rules. Renders legal advice to Judge regarding changes in and interpretation of civil and criminal statutes, case law and procedures. Acts as liaison between the Court, litigants, attorneys, Special Masters, Court personnel, and the media. Utilizes current county-wide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

Minimum Qualifications

Under Merit Rule 1, employees in this class are excluded from the Merit System for the manner of selection, appointment, removal from office, limitation, or political activity.

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Be licensed to practice law and maintain membership in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan.

Special Requirements

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

1. Have graduated from an ABA approved law school and passed a State Bar examination.

2. Have at least two years of legal work experience including positions of comparable responsibility with other Courts, as a practicing attorney, as a mediator, arbitrator or facilitator. Other positions may be deemed comparable by the Judge or Circuit Court Administrator.

3. Have working knowledge of both civil and criminal substantive and procedural law including such areas as constitutional law, commercial litigation, environmental law, federal preemption, class actions, murder, criminal sexual conduct, property, contracts, employment law, insurance law and torts.

4. Pass the employment physical examination established for this classification.

5. Successfully complete the six month probationary period.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

1. Successful completion of facilitative mediation training and program requirements.

2. Law Review, Moot Court or other comparable experience.

3. Substantial knowledge of the principles of civil and criminal law.