Do you have a strong sense of justice, a commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal profession, and want to protect the public? We are seeking a dynamic and skilled individual to join our team as Bar Counsel at the State Bar of Arizona. In this role, you will play a vital part in ensuring the ethical standards of the legal profession are upheld by conducting investigations, drafting pleadings, and participating in hearings before various judicial bodies.
ABOUT US
The State Bar of Arizona is a non-profit organization that operates under the supervision of the Arizona Supreme Court. The Bar regulates approximately 19,000 active attorneys in Arizona and provides education and development programs for the legal profession and the public. The Bar and its members are committed to serving the public by making sure the voices of all people in Arizona are heard in our justice system.
Benefits of working at the State Bar of Arizona include:
- 100% employer paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (employee only)
- $900 HSA funding provided by employer for individuals ($2,000 for families)
- Generous paid vacation and sick time
- 10 paid holidays per year + 2 additional floating holidays
- 8 hours of paid volunteer hours per year
- Paid parental leave
- 401(k) with employer match
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Quarterly wellness reimbursement for gym membership
- A community of friendly and collaborative co-workers
If you are ready for a challenging and rewarding legal career that makes a significant impact on the Arizona legal profession while protecting the public, we want you on our team! To hear more about the mission of the SBA , please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTd_T8s6BNw to watch our video.
RESPONSIBILITIES
· Represents the State Bar in discipline, disability, reinstatement, and unauthorized practice of law matters, in performing the following functions:
- Conducting investigations
- Drafting and filing pleadings
- Conducting discovery including taking and defending depositions
- Conducting hearings before the Presiding Disciplinary Judge, Hearing Panels and in Superior Court as necessary.
- Preparing proposed findings of fact, conclusions of law and recommendations for trial
- Preparing pleadings, motions, and responses in disciplinary proceedings.
- Making appearances before the Attorney Discipline Probable Cause Committee and the Supreme Court
- Drafting appellate briefs and special actions; arguing appeals before the Supreme Court
- Conducting all aspects of investigation and discipline of Legal Paraprofessionals and Alternative Business Structures in accordance with the rules.
· Makes recommendations of disposition and form of discipline.
· Prescreens and screens charges submitted to the State Bar.
· Conducts investigations into alleged misconduct or incapacity.
· Works with the Compliance Monitor in monitoring probation and diversion cases.
· Inform respondents or their counsel of terms and conditions of respondent’s participation in diversion programs or probation. Coordinate with other departments, as appropriate.
· Works with CLE in developing and presenting seminars and CLE programs.
· Provides guidance and direction to Independent Bar Counsel.
· Prepares memoranda, correspondence, and reports, as required.
· Exercises judgment in assessing facts and evaluating appropriate dispositions in cases involving specific legal practice areas. Exercises judgment in handling complex litigation and applying discipline experience in appropriate exercise of prosecutorial discretion.
· Provides guidance to assigned legal secretary, as required.
· Performs all other related duties, as assigned including discipline investigations and prosecution as needed.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
J.D required. Have a minimum of five (5) years successful practical legal experience including litigation/trial experience. Active member in good standing of the State Bar of Arizona.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
· Performs all duties in compliance with internal procedures and external regulations. Is responsible for bringing compliance issues to the attention of management.
· Thorough knowledge of all aspects of office management practices and procedures.
· Requires knowledge of the Rules of Professional Conduct and the Diversion Guidelines. This includes the ability to apply rules to the specific situation.
· Strong written and verbal skills. Ability to read, write, analyze, and interprets policies, procedures, and regulations.
· Must have high level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations. Position requires demonstrated professionalism.
· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
· Strong time management skills.
· Flexibility in schedule to meet business needs.
· Must be team oriented but able to work independently.
- Model the behaviors expected of all SBA employees by:
Cultivating a positive work environment
- Prioritizing and setting manageable goals.
- Being efficient with time at work.
- Communicating effectively with management, staff, members, clients, visitors, and the public.
- Being flexible and taking criticism constructively.
- Maintaining the highest ethical standards.
Computer Skills
Microsoft windows environment with Microsoft 365 to include formatting and production of word processing documents, presentations, email and calendars, spreadsheets, and reports. Ability to use tools for video conferencing, as needed. Familiarity with current law office technology and practice management applications a plus.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Required: Position may require travel within the State; thus, must have and maintain a valid Arizona driver’s license and have access to an automobile. If using personal vehicle, must have appropriate insurance coverage.
Member in good standing with The State Bar of Arizona, and/or in all jurisdictions where licensed.
EOE
