Staff Attorney ; Hybrid - AR

Introduction

Are you passionate about advocating for students with disabilities and ensuring their educational rights are upheld? If so, apply today for a Staff Attorney 2 position in the Office of Legal and Governmental Affairs at the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE). This role focuses on the legal and administrative aspects of special education law.

• Monday–Friday, 1st shift / 40 hours
• Hybrid work schedule
• Location:
  
  450 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT

Engage daily with Bureau of Special Education (BSE) staff on receipt and disposition of administrative complaints, applying case law and legal standards to review and approve final reports prior to dissemination.

The CSDE is the administrative arm of the Connecticut State Board of Education. Through leadership, curriculum, research, planning, evaluation, assessment, data analyses, and other assistance, the Department helps ensure equal opportunity and excellence in education for all Connecticut students.

• Research, interpret, and analyze complex laws, regulations, and case law related to special education and disability rights.
• Draft advisory opinions, rulings, decisions, and recommendations for agency use.
• Represent the agency in formal administrative and public proceedings, including hearings and mediations.
• Negotiate and draft settlement agreements; prepare legal briefs and memoranda for administrative or court cases.
• Provide legal guidance to agency staff and assist in policy formation.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, pleadings, and other court papers for administrative and court proceedings.
• Maintain precedent manuals and review legal documents for sufficiency.
• Consult with the Office of the Attorney General on legal matters and keep the agency updated on changes to relevant laws.

Applicants should have a strong legal background and experience with special education law.

• Two (2) years of experience practicing law.
• Admission to practice law in the State of Connecticut.
• Knowledge of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act and related state and federal statutes.

• Experience representing clients at Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings and reviewing Individualized Education Programs (IEP).
• Experience handling Connecticut State Department of Education special education administrative complaints, hearings, or mediations.
• Experience drafting legal briefs or memoranda in administrative or court cases involving federal and Connecticut special education law.
• Proficiency in interpreting and applying federal and state special education statutes, including the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).

Incumbents in this class may be required to travel.

The State of Connecticut is a full‑service equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.