General Counsel

Job Description:

General Counsel

Description

The Department of Public Safety-Office of the Director (DPS) is currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced General Counsel to join the DPS legal team. DPS is responsible for the overall coordination of Missouri’s public safety and law enforcement program. The DPS General Counsel performs complex legal work and research, while also providing expert legal advice and guidance to ensure compliance with Missouri and federal law. The General Counsel works closely with DPS leadership, DPS divisions, other executive departments, the Governor’s office, and the Attorney General’s office to anticipate legal issues and counsel DPS senior leaders and team members in the development of sound legal strategies.

Job Description:

• Anticipate and identify significant legal issues
• Develop legal strategies and solutions
• Draft and review policies, procedures, contracts, regulations, and other legal documents. Ensure that all documents are clear, well-reasoned, and aligned with applicable laws and regulations.
• Conduct legal research and analyze laws and regulations pertaining to DPS and its divisions
• Provide legal advice on diverse issues related to public safety, including employment law, civil rights, contracts, open records and questions arising from DPS divisions
• Advise and counsel management for compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations
• Work collaboratively with all other DPS staff, agencies, and external partners by providing advice and counsel for compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations
• Supervise staff members on the DPS legal team
• Collaborate and provide support to the DPS Legislative Director
• Prepares written and verbal opinions and guidance as needed
• Represents DPS as assigned, in administrative hearings, meetings, and court proceedings; specifically in Peace Officer Standards Training (POST) hearings and Administrative Hearing Commission interactions
• Coordinate legal matters with outside counsel
• Provide litigation assistance primarily to attorneys with the Attorney General’s office
• Review proposed legislation to assess its potential impact on DPS and state government operations. Provide legal analysis and recommendations to senior leaders.
• Review and advise on the administrative rules process for DPS
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant legislation, case law, and administrative rulings as well as pending legislation and regulations pertinent to the operations of DPS and state government.

Minimum Qualifications:

A Juris Doctorate from an accredited institution, a license in good standing to practice law in Missouri, and at least 5 years of experience practicing law

Preferred Qualifications:

7 or more years of progressive complex experience in the practice of criminal, civil, and/or administrative law

Lack of post-secondary education will not be used as the sole basis denying consideration to any applicant.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to work in a team environment to analyze and problem solve
• Detail oriented and organized, with excellent time management skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently with limited oversight
• Demonstrated track record in successfully developing, implementing, and monitoring legal matters simultaneously with the ability to effectively prioritize work
• Awareness of DPS programs, initiatives, and divisions
• Knowledge of the administrative rules process
• Familiarity with the legislative process
• Knowledge and experience in procurement and contract law
• Knowledge of employment law, civil, and administrative law

The salary indicated represents a base pay rate. If the individual selected or the position is eligible for a pay differential (e.g., shift, security, or years of service), it will be added to the total compensation in your paycheck. A pay differential does not raise your base pay.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety is an equal opportunity employer. Those with limited English proficiency or who need auxiliary aids or other services, can contact DPS.HumanResources@dps.mo.gov . For Relay Missouri, please dial 711. For TTY/TDD, please dial 800-735-2966.

Salary:

$120,000-$150,000 per Year