Attorney V/Deputy General Counsel
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
- Columbia, South Carolina
- Full Time
- Principal agency attorney in driver's license and vehicle matters
- Represent the department in driver's license litigation in the Office of Motor Vehicle Hearings, the Administrative Law Court, and other state trial and appellate courts as assigned
- Collaborate with various divisions and offices to identify legal problems and guide the establishment of operating procedures, especially regarding driver's license and vehicle issues
- Prepare memoranda, briefs, and proposed orders for court cases and administrative appeals
- Supervise attorneys who handle contracts, procurement, titles, auto dealers, driver training schools, IFTA, and IRP
- Research and prepare legal opinions for department employees
- Respond to legal inquiries from the public, private attorneys, and government agencies, particularly about driver's license and vehicle matters
- Advise employees on policy and operating procedures resulting from legislation, regulations, and court decisions
- Work with the Office of Training and Change Management to create training materials and conduct training both inside and outside the agency
- Perform other duties as required
- Juris Doctorate degree or equivalent from an accredited law school and experience as a practicing attorney
- At least ten (10) years of practicing attorney experience
- Membership in the South Carolina Bar and license to practice law in the state and federal courts of South Carolina
- Knowledge of pertinent state and federal laws, regulations, administrative rulings, and rules of court
- Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently
- Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to interpret and apply laws and judicial decisions
- General knowledge of statutory and regulatory schemes involving motor vehicle-related issues
- Capability to handle complex and sensitive legal matters with minimal supervision, including research, legal opinions, pleadings, briefs, and trial and appellate presentations
- Understanding of the law enforcement, regulatory, and judicial processes and ability to work effectively with law enforcement and judicial personnel
- Sensitivity to the Department's role in administering justice and providing services to citizens
- Some state-wide travel required; ability to transport court materials
- Trial experience and appellate practice preferred
- Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children (also available for temporary employees working over 30 hours per week)
- 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
- 15 days sick leave per year
- 13 paid holidays
- State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs (optional for temporary employees)
- Exceptional Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at no cost to the employee or household members
The South Carolina DMV offers a robust and competitive benefits program and a diverse culture that nurtures mutual success for our customers, employees, and communities. We provide the tools for success; you bring your best ideas, energy, and desire to grow.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.