Under the general supervision of the Deputy Chief Counsel, the Staff Attorney position performs a variety of professional and specialized legal work in the preparation of legal opinions; provision of legal guidance to CalOptima departments; creation and review of legal documents, proposed arrangements, policies and proposals; representation of CalOptima at depositions and/or administrative hearings; and performance of related work as assigned. This position is assigned a wide variety of professional legal work. This position requires adaptability, attention to detail, multi-tasking, analytical skills, strong interpersonal skills, ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment, a high level of professionalism as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. The incumbent must be able to work under the pressure of strict deadlines on multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs legal research and provides written and oral opinions on various legal issues applicable to CalOptima’s operations.
- Assists in establishing, drafting, and/or recommending changes to policies and procedures to meet legal requirements.
- Confers with and advises CalOptima departments on legal questions and prepares formal responses to Requests for Legal Services.
- Prepares, drafts, reviews, and/or recommends changes to ordinances, resolutions, contracts, deeds, leases, and other legal documents, correspondence, reports, agreements and instruments.
- Analyzes technical, statutory, and regulatory issues, evaluates alternatives, and makes appropriate legal recommendations based on findings.
- Reviews documents responsive to requests under the Public Records Act and subpoenas, and acts as the preliminary point of contact for requests for legal assistance as assigned by the Deputy Chief Counsel.
- Receives claims and complaints, investigates and gathers facts and documents, evaluates evidence, and recommends appropriate action.
- Assists in coordinating CalOptima’s involvement in litigation, government claims, and subpoenas, as assigned, including interactions with outside counsel engaged to represent CalOptima.
- Coordinates filings for federal or state quasi-judicial reviews.
- Demonstrates commitment to high ethical standards.
- Completes special projects and other duties as assigned.
Required Skills
- Work effectively with all levels of staff, representatives of other public agencies and governing bodies.
- Evaluate and appropriately assess the legal implications of projects and issues assigned, raising issues to the Deputy Chief Counsel as appropriate.
- Advise and assist CalOptima management and staff in understanding and applying legal interpretations and requirements.
- Conceptualize and effectively perform legal research and analyze applicability of law to CalOptima’s operations.
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and produce high quality legal work under pressure and time constraints.
- Present statements of fact and law clearly, logically, and concisely in written and oral form.
- Prepare and present cases in court or administrative hearing.
- Maintain an environment of teamwork and collaboration conducive to expanding knowledge and expertise.
Required Experience
EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:
- Juris Doctorate Law Degree with an active license to practice law in the state of California required.
- At least 3 years of experience in the practice of law preferred.
- Public agency and/or health care experience required.
KNOWLEDGE OF:
- Laws and regulations pertaining to public agencies and the delivery of healthcare services and contractual arrangements particularly in the context of managed care.
- Public contracting and contract development, including general contract terms and conditions.
- Legal rules, principles and practices, including civil and administrative laws and procedures.
Grade: P
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