Description

Attorneys in the Office of Legislative Counsel practice law in a dynamic, intellectually challenging, and highly collegial environment. Legislative Counsel attorneys serve the General Assembly and play an integral role in the legislative process. Work includes testifying before legislative committees, drafting legislation, and providing legal and policy analysis to legislators and committees on novel and complex legal issues impacting Vermont.  

The Office of Legislative Counsel is seeking an additional attorney to join this exciting work on our collaborative team.  The diverse portfolio is related to judiciary committee subjects, including pre-trial services, juvenile justice, public safety, DUI, child neglect and abuse, corrections policy, and law enforcement, among other issues. 

The Office of Legislative Counsel is a nonpartisan office that provides confidential legal services to all members of the General Assembly, regardless of party or political affiliation.  Each attorney is a part of a supportive team with in-depth subject matter expertise.  Applicant experience in the subject areas listed above or in legislative drafting, or both, is preferred but not required.

During the legislative session, attorneys are expected to work in-person in Montpelier.  The Legislative Branch utilizes a compensation analysis that bases salary on qualifications, experience, and the prevailing salaries of comparable positions in both the public and private sector. The anticipated pay for this position will be between $85,425 and $130,275, depending on applicable qualifications and experience. The comprehensive State benefits package includes health insurance and retirement plans. The Office of Legislative Counsel prioritizes a healthy work-life balance for the professionals on our team.

 To apply, please submit in PDF format a resume, a writing sample, and a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications to:  HRApplications@leg.state.vt.us.   Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  Please put your name and “attorney application” in the subject field of the e-mail.

Requirements

Required Education and Experience:

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school or successful completion of a recognized law office study program
• Licensed to practice law in Vermont and in good standing or currently licensed to practice law and in good standing in another state with the ability to become licensed to practice law in the State of Vermont within two years of employment.

Required Skills:

• Strong research, analysis, and writing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including a willingness to interface with all legislators, staff, and members of the public.
• Ability to maintain composure while meeting tight deadlines.
• Ability to analyze and interpret issues and provide nonpartisan, expert information in a political environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage politically sensitive work.