WELFARE ATTORNEY 50210

Exempt

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

 

The work involves responsibility for performing general legal work as it relates to all operational phases of the Department of Social Services. Under general supervision, an employee in this class drafts legal instruments, prepares opinions, writes briefs and prepares cases for trial in order to protect the legal rights and interests of the Department of Social Services. General supervision is received through conferences and review of reports. Direct supervision is exercised over a small number of subordinate employees. Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

 

Assists in the preparation of actions for neglect, delinquency, abandonment, non-support, proceedings to establish paternity, and actions against legally responsible relatives.

Prepares or supervises the preparation of all legal documents for the Department of Social Services.

Acts as Legal Consultant to the administrator in charge of the Resource Division on matters of assignments of insurance, real or personal property and in the collections of accounts receivable.

Prepares or supervises the preparation of all agreements between the Department of Social Services and recipients or applicants, other agencies, doctors, druggists or other vendors.

Participates in staff orientation and in-service training programs as it relates to Social Welfare activities and responsibilities in the community.

Represents the department at Fair Hearings with the State Department of Social Services and during real estate auction sales.

Advises the Commissioner and/or his Deputies regarding advisability of

instituting various legal proceedings.

Addresses professional and lay groups on the legal aspects of Public Welfare.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

 

Thorough knowledge of the legal profession as it applies to writing briefs, legal research techniques, preparing cases for trial, etc.

Skill in the presentation of cases before the courts.

Ability to make sound judgment.

Ability to learn and interpret the Welfare Law as it applies to actual cases of contention.

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

 

Graduation from a law school recognized by the State of New York and five years experience in the practice of law.

 

SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENT

 

Possession of a license to practice law in the State of New York at the time of appointment.

 

12/91 Revised