Attorney II The Attorney II provides advanced legal analysis, advisory services, and decision support to the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) PSOB Program. This role is responsible for reviewing and adjudicating complex claims under the PSOB Act, including both initial determinations and appellate-level reviews. Attorney II applies statutory, regulatory, and policy frameworks to evaluate eligibility, ensure legal sufficiency, and support consistent, well-reasoned, and defensible program decisions. The position is fully remote, but subject to change per government requirements.
Key Responsibilities- Conduct initial and appellate-level legal review of claims submitted under the PSOB Act.
- Analyze and determine eligibility for benefits using applicable statutes, regulations, and agency interpretive guidance.
- Provide legal advice and guidance to determine officials on complex legal and factual issues related to PSOB claims.
- Draft legal memoranda evaluating the sufficiency of funding determinations and recommending approval or denial.
- Review and assess appealed determinations, ensuring legal sufficiency at the highest levels of agency review.
- Prepare formal written decisions for the BJA Director, clearly articulating the legal basis for approvals or denials.
- Identify and analyze complex or novel legal issues, including those arising from evolving case law or statutory changes.
- Monitor and track updates to the PSOB Act, regulations, and related policies, and assess their impact on program operations.
- Develop comprehensive legal analyses and guidance documents related to program interpretation and implementation.
- Maintain accurate records and ensure timely processing of claims and appeals in accordance with program requirements.
Minimum Qualifications- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
- Active bar membership in good standing in at least one U.S. state, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory.
- Minimum of three (3) years of post-J.D. legal experience in a law firm, government agency, or similar setting.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with administrative law, federal benefits programs, or claims adjudication.
- Familiarity with federal statutes, regulatory interpretation, and appellate review processes.
- Strong legal writing skills, including experience drafting formal opinions, memoranda, or adjudicatory decisions.
- Experience working with government programs or grant-funded initiatives.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Strong analytical and legal reasoning skills, with the ability to interpret complex statutes and regulations.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, defensible legal work.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating with program staff and leadership.
