Job Description
Description and Functions
Open Until Filled
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Please Follow The Directions In The "How To Apply" Section At The Bottom Of This Job Description.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC), located in Cheyenne, Wyoming, seeks to hire a General Counsel to provide legal assistance and services to members of the Judicial Branch and further the projects and initiatives of the Judicial Council, Administrative Office of the Courts, and the courts throughout the state. The General Counsel will review Judicial Branch policies, procedures, and practices on a regular basis to ensure compliance with federal and state law. The position calls for the exercise of discretion and professional judgment to advise Court Administration and the wider Judicial Branch.
Information about the Court and Community
The AOC assists the Wyoming Judicial Branch in fulfilling its constitutional and statutory functions by providing administrative, technical, financial, payroll, auditing, and human resources support to over 300 employees. Our goal is to provide services in an accurate, timely, efficient, and equitable manner. Our offices are in Cheyenne, Wyoming which is home to Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, is a growing metropolitan area that thrives on its Western heritage.
If you excel in a dynamic environment, possess exceptional analytical skills, and are ready to make a significant impact on public administration and legal practice, we encourage you to apply.
Human Resources Contact: Adam Arreygue, aarreygue@courts.state.wy.us, 307-777-8648
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: General expected duties for this position include making, preserving, transcribing, and delivery of the verbatim record of proceedings for criminal, civil, juvenile, and probate, and other cases as follows:
Supervisory responsibility:
The General Counsel supervises two employees in the State Law Library. This position is responsible for professional development opportunities for staff, dispute resolution, mentoring, training, and making decisions regarding hiring, termination, and corrective action.
What You'll Do: Impactful Responsibilities:
- As our General Counsel, you'll be a pivotal resource for the Judicial Branch, providing expert legal guidance and strategic support across a wide spectrum of areas. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Serving as in-house counsel in all areas of law, and especially in the areas of employment, contract, procurement, civil rights, and court rules and administration.
- Proactively evaluate Judicial Branch processes, recommending and drafting policies and procedures to ensure compliance with statutory, constitutional, and case law, as well as Court Rules.
- Draft and negotiate complex contracts, including critical information technology agreements, safeguarding the Branch's interests.
- Monitor and analyze proposed legal, rules, and procedural changes, disseminating crucial updates to impact Branch operations.
- Advise management on intricate personnel issues, ensuring full compliance with federal and state employment and civil rights laws (e.g., ADA, FLSA, Title VI, FMLA).
- Conduct in-depth legal research and provide expert analysis on complex, often novel, legal issues impacting the administration and operation of the Wyoming judiciary.
- Draft comprehensive legal memoranda, opinions, and advice in response to specific questions from courts and various divisions of Court Administration.
- Assist with the drafting and review of proposed changes to court rules, attending relevant meetings to guide discussions.
Leadership & Team Management:
- Directly supervise two employees in the State Law Library, fostering their professional growth, resolving disputes, and providing mentorship.
- Lead the hiring, training, and performance management processes for your team, empowering them to excel.
- Cultivate a collaborative, positive, and communicative team environment, ensuring accountability and shared knowledge.
Special Projects & Collaboration:
- Undertake complex or unique special assignments directly from the State Court Administrator.
- Actively staff various committees, preparing agendas, gathering materials, researching legal and policy issues, and providing critical information for informed decision-making.
- Engage in vital outreach with other state agencies and attorneys, seeking collaborative solutions to legal challenges within court administration.
- Oversee the effective management of the Judicial Learning Center.
Qualifications
PREFERENCES/AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
A minimum of five (5) or more years of relevant, progressively responsible legal work experience.
Preference will be given to candidates with experience in employment law, contract law, procurement, civil rights, or public sector law.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
This position requires the ability to:
- Exceptional Legal Acumen: Demonstrated ability to research complex legal problems, apply legal principles, and provide objective, well-reasoned guidance based on case law and statutory analysis. Deep knowledge of Wyoming statutes, court rules, and federal employment/civil rights law.
- Superior Communication: Ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, to diverse audiences with varying levels of legal understanding.
- Analytical & Problem-Solving Mastery: Highly self-motivated with keen attention to detail, strong analytical assessment skills, and effective problem-solving techniques for intricate issues.
- Organizational Prowess: Excellent organizational skills, time management, and the ability to assess, evaluate, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously to meet critical deadlines.
- Interpersonal & Collaborative: Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, court personnel, other state agencies, and external stakeholders, fostering a respectful and collaborative environment.
- Technically Proficient: Skilled in legal research platforms (e.g., Westlaw) and proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Leadership & Mentorship: Experience supervising staff, delegating effectively, empowering team members, and holding others accountable for performance outcomes.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) Degree from an ABA-accredited law school
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Active membership in the Wyoming State Bar (or eligibility for admission by waiver).
Necessary Special Requirements
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
- This position operates in a professional office environment,
- Requiring the ability to use standard office equipment, work on a computer for prolonged periods,
- Communicate effectively in person and over the phone.
- Occasional standing, walking,
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds may be required.
- Travel, including overnight stays, is a component of this role.
NOTES:
- Employment is an at-will position subject to a background check.
- FLSA: Exempt
- This position is a State of Wyoming employee. In addition to an annual salary, employees of the Wyoming Judicial Branch receive a generous benefits package to include the State of Wyoming retirement pension plan and 457 Deferred Comp plan; an affordable health insurance package including health, dental, life, vision, Short and Long-Term disability insurance, ambulance coverage, and Employee Assistance Program; paid annual, sick and holiday leave, and much more.
Supplemental Information
Working with the Wyoming Judicial Branch offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the administration of justice. You'll gain unparalleled experience in public sector law, collaborate with dedicated professionals, and have a tangible impact on the lives of Wyoming citizens.
HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants must submit a completed Branch application, cover letter, and resume for consideration. Click here to view all available positions and to complete the online application process. Please contact recruiter@courts.state.wy.us with any questions.
Veterans: If you are a United States Armed Forces veteran, or the spouse of a veteran who was married to that veteran at the time of that person's death and receives survivor benefits, to receive veteran's preference under Wyo. Stat. Section 19-14-102, you must complete the Veteran's Preference section of the Wyoming Judicial Branch At-Will Employment Application and attach a Form DD214 to the application.
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Working for the State of Wyoming provides employees with a range of valuable benefits and offers a fulfilling career path. Employees enjoy comprehensive healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans, ensuring their well-being and that of their families. Additionally, the state offers multiple retirement plans, which provide financial security and stability for employees once their career in public services comes to an end. the state recognizes the importance of personal time and offers generous paid time off and flexible arrangements, allowing employees to recharge, take care of personal matters, and maintain a healthy work-life integration.
There are many benefits to living and working in Wyoming. Beautiful country with wide-open spaces, clean air, great recreational activities, and no State income tax to mention a few!
Click here to learn more!