Class Code:  00643

 

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES –

HUMAN RESOURCES ENTERPRISE

 

ATTORNEY 1

 

DEFINITION

Performs entry-level professional, legal work of a limited scope and variety; performs related work as required.

 

The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.

 

WORK EXAMPLES

Prepares tentative drafts, letters, memoranda and legal documents for use by attorneys of a higher level in the preparation of opinions, legislative reports, briefs, contracts, and other papers or legal documents.

Prepares cases for filing by drafting complaints, order to show cause, indictment, preliminary motions and supporting affidavits and briefs.

Prepares drafts of pleadings, motions and interrogatories in connection with cases in litigation.

Assists higher level attorneys in court cases or administrative proceedings by interviewing and selecting appropriate witnesses, preparing them to give testimony, conducting direct examination, suggesting questions to be asked in cross-examination; cross-examining witnesses in line with established line of questioning.

Assists in the preparation of drafts of finding of fact, conclusions of law and orders based on the records.

Conducts investigations of a limited scope to obtain facts, studies legal precedents and prepares recommendations for the review of a supervisor.

 

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Knowledge of legal principles and their application; of legal research methods and their application.

Knowledge of the scope and character of Iowa statutory law and the provisions of the Iowa Constitution.

Knowledge of administrative and constitutional law; of trial and administrative hearing procedures and the rules of evidence.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, superiors, agency personnel and the general public.

Ability to present statements of fact, law, and to argue clearly and logically in written and oral form.

Ability to draft statutes and other legal instruments and documents.

Ability to dictate correspondence involving the explanation of legal matters.

Ability to analyze situations accurately and to adopt an effective course of action.

Ability to be admitted to the Iowa State Bar if required at the time of appointment.

Ability to apply personal work attitudes such as honesty, responsibility and trustworthiness required to be a productive employee.

Displays high standards of ethical conduct.  Exhibits honesty and integrity.  Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.

Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner.  Committed to quality service.

Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently.  Works with minimal supervision.  Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.

Responds appropriately to supervision.  Makes an effort to follow policy and cooperate with supervisors.

Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.

Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity.  Fosters commitment and team spirit.

Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information.  Listens to others and responds appropriately.

 

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Graduation from an accredited school of law.

 

SELECTIVE CERTIFICATION

For designated positions, the Appointing Authority, with Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise prior approval, may request those applicants possessing a minimum of twelve semester hours of education, six months of experience, or a combination of both, or a specific certificate, license, or endorsement in the following areas:

 

188       environmental law

871       license to practice law in Iowa

 

Applicants desiring to be considered for such designated positions must list applicable coursework, experience, certificate, license, or endorsement, on the application.

 

Effective Date:          5/99         GRC