Complaint Investigator - Staff Attorney

Overview

Working Title:
Staff Attorney, Dispute Resolution - Staff Attorney 2

Job Class:
Staff Attorney 2

Agency:
Education Department

Current permanent-classified MDE employees represented by MAPE who are eligible for interest bidding for the position should consult Article 16, Vacancies, Filling of Positions, Section 3, Job Posting and Interest Bidding, of their negotiated agreement. In order to be considered for the position as an interest bidder your application must be received by the "Closed for Bid" date listed above AND you must email the recruiter indicating your interest bid.

The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

As a Staff Attorney on the Dispute Resolution team with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), you will provide legal assistance and expertise to the staff at MDE, school districts and charter schools, and the general public regarding the application of federal and state laws and rules under MDE's jurisdiction.

• Conduct State Special Education complaint investigations and make legally binding determinations of school district and charter school compliance with federal and state laws, rules, regulations, case law, and other guidance related to students with disabilities.
• Provide privileged legal technical assistance, legal analysis, legal advice, and practical assistance to internal customers with respect to the application of federal and state laws, rules, regulations and processes, to fact situations, hypothetical questions, and anticipatory litigation concerns.
• Promote early resolution of disputes by encouraging communication between internal customers and external customers and providing information about laws, procedures, and dispute resolution options.

• Juris Doctorate (JD) degree from an ABA accredited law school
• Current license and in good standing to practice law in Minnesota, or have the ability to do so within six months of hire
• At least three (3) years experience as a practicing attorney in an area of law related to this position

Experience must include the following demonstrated skill, abilities and knowledge bases:

• Critical thinking and problem solving skills sufficient to analyze a variety of complex legal issues, identify areas of research, conduct research and evaluate alternatives, make sound decisions and provide legal advice to executives and management on these issues
• Knowledge of principles and practices of legal, ethical and professional rules of conduct
• Ability to think creatively and approach projects and tasks from a continuous improvement perspective
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace

• Demonstrated legal interest in issues relating to special education law, disability-related law, school law, nondiscrimination laws, and/or public interest law
• Excellent communication skills and written work product to provide legal advice and handle varied legal issues
• Professional level experience interpreting, analyzing, researching and advising all levels of management on complex legal and policy requirements
• Strong knowledge of federal and state special education laws; strong knowledge of Minnesota Government Data Practices Act and ability to analyze data, determine classification of data and ensure protection of non-public data
• Experience working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures
• Demonstrated ability to assist parties in generating solutions and resolving adversarial situations and persistent conflicts at the lowest level of controversy
• Ability to analyze, appraise, and organize facts, apply knowledge of various and often conflicting laws, to arrive at logical and legally sound conclusions

Writing Sample:
Individuals who are selected for an interview will be requested to submit a writing sample.

A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. The background check may consist of the following components:

• SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)
• Employment Reference Check
• Conflict of Interest Review
• Driver's License Check
• Criminal Background Check

The Minnesota Department of Education will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

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If you have questions about this position, contact Kate Elling ing.us or .

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