Legal Counsel; State Legislature & Governor and Executive Branch

Overview

JOB TITLE: Legal Counsel to the Koror State Legislature and Legal Counsel to the Koror State Governor and Executive Branch. These positions offer the opportunity to provide expert legal guidance on matters shaping Koror State’s governance and future.

SALARY: $60,000 annually depending on qualifications.

AVAILABILITY: For immediate placement.

LOCATION: Koror State Capital, Koror State, Republic of Palau.

DURATION: Full time, on site at an office location.

OTHER BENEFITS: See sections below for each position.

Legal Counsel to the Koror State Governor and Executive Branch: Deliver crucial legal expertise to the Executive Branch. Under guidance of the Governor and Department Heads, handle a portfolio including:

• Assisting Enforcement: Drive enforcement of Koror State criminal citations issued by the State Rangers. Collaborate with the Department of Conservation and Law Enforcement, review police reports, draft criminal complaints (infractions and misdemeanors), and prosecute actions through all stages.
• Shaping Development: Partner with the Koror State Planning Commission to enforce building and zoning laws, overseeing permitting and related legal matters.
• Guiding Personnel Matters: Advise on executive branch employee matters, uphold the Employee Manual, navigate disciplinary actions, and provide counsel.
• Cross-Agency Support: Conduct legal research, draft documents (memos, legislation, regulations, correspondence), assist colleagues, and handle civil litigation as needed. Perform other tasks as assigned by the Governor and Department Heads.

Legal Counsel to the Koror State Legislature: Provide legal services to the Koror State Legislature. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Drafting and analyzing legislation, preparing legal opinions on interpretation and constitutionality of provisions, attending legislative committee hearings, preparing committee reports, advising legislators, drafting memoranda and official communications, and collaborating with state departments, national ministries, constituents, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrate strong writing, analytical abilities, and the capacity to work under deadlines. Maintain a professional, cooperative approach; occasional attendance at meetings during nights or weekends may be required.

Candidate profile: Juris Doctor (JD) and active in good standing with a State Bar in the United States. Minimum of two years of demonstrable experience in trial work, legal counsel, or land/real estate matters. Strong working knowledge of administrative law and procedure is advantageous. Excellent organizational, prioritization, and time-management skills; ability to navigate arbitration and mediation; outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Friendly, professional, and able to foster positive working relationships.

THE CANDIDATE: This role requires a highly motivated individual who can deliver legal services across executive and legislative branches, with capacity to manage multiple priorities in a government setting.

Legal Counsel to the Koror State Governor and Executive Branch: Applicants should send a cover letter and resume (Microsoft Word format) to the Koror State Government Human Resources Manager, Ms. Marla Erur Ito, at  VACANCY IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

Legal Counsel to the Koror State Legislature: Applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Speaker Marie Anderson Nabeyama, Koror State Legislature, P.O. Box 116, Republic of Palau 96940, or email to  or  VACANCY IS OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

Please refer to the official job posting for more details.