The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected: children, elderly, and people with disabilities, from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS is a qualifying organization for the Service Loan Forgiveness Program. DFPS also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, a lifetime monthly retirement annuity as well as Texasaver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. As an additional benefit you will receive 12 days of paid annual leave, 12 sick days, and the potential to earn up to four days of administrative leave each year. Annual paid leave accrual increases as tenure increases.
The DFPS Records Management Attorney maintains active knowledge of the Texas Family Code, relevant case law, state and federal laws, administrative rules, and agency policies that govern matters related to the confidentiality of DFPS records. The Records Management Attorney must have the ability to develop an expertise as to the laws, rules, and policies that govern the confidentiality of DFPS records. This attorney provides legal training to agency staff and the legal community and may provide agency representation on confidentiality matters in court cases. The position also handles subpoena issues for statewide litigation. Must be a team player and able to communicate effectively. Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations.
Essential Job Functions:- Advises staff on legal matters and interprets laws, regulations, and policies.
- Advises county and district attorneys on confidentiality and subpoena matters.
- Coordinates and provides training on records, subpoena and confidentiality matters.
- Appears in court for contested legal matters.
- Assists with policy formation for records management and confidentiality issues.
- Performs other duties as assigned and required to maintain operations.
- Promotes, monitors, and ensures that respect is demonstrated for cultural diversity.
- Attends work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: - Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
Knowledge Skills Abilities:- Knowledge of family law and civil practice.
- Ability to synthesize law, administrative rules, agency policies and goals to reach an appropriate interpretation of confidentiality and entitlement issues related to agency records.
- Ability to convey complex legal ideas and instructions clearly to staff and external stakeholders.
- Effective advocacy skills.
- Ability to develop and maintain professional working relationships with agency staff and the legal community.
Initial Screening Criteria:Licensed to practice law in Texas and in good standing with the State Bar of Texas. Two years of experience in the practice of law. Acceptable substitutions: open records experience relating to records entitlement and confidentiality matters may be substituted for the minimum licensure requirement.
Additional Information:Physical requirements for the position include the ability to drive a vehicle, to lift and carry objects, operate a computer, including operating word-processing, data management and other computer software, to be capable of verbal and written communication, and to operate machinery and equipment, such as copiers, facsimile, and other office equipment.
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Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor's Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at dfpsmilvets@dfps.texas.gov with additional questions.
