Description
Job Summary
Provide direct representation to individuals with disabilities in courts (state and federal) and administrative proceedings in matters concerning Medicaid coverage and services. Representation includes, but is not limited to, complex Medicaid and Olmstead litigation (including class actions) and Medicaid Fair Hearings.
PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Represent clients and classes of clients who are eligible for DRM services in litigation as set forth above.
2. Assist in developing impact litigation and advocacy strategies, as well as internal litigation and advocacy priorities.
3. Collaborate with DRM staff and outside counsel in carrying out ## 1 and 2.
4. Comply with all applicable professional requirements and internal policies, including DRM case management requirements.
5. Provide support to DRM staff and outside individuals and organizations on issues relating to DRM’s work.
6. Design and lead trainings on request.
7. Assist with reporting and similar agency obligations as needed.
8. Represent the perspective of DRM and people with disabilities on task forces, policy groups, coalitions, and similar bodies.
9. Regularly attend team and agency-wide staff meetings in-office, virtually, or off-site as required.
10. Other job-related duties as assigned.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and active State Bar of Michigan membership.
2. At least three years of relevant litigation experience, ideally including complex litigation, 1983 litigation, Medicaid Act litigation, and/or ADA/Olmstead litigation. Administrative hearing experience is highly desired.
3. Demonstrated ability to lead litigation in state and federal courts.
4. Demonstrated ability to take a lead role in case planning and litigation management.
5. Valid State of Michigan identification and ability to travel to court, client meetings, etc.
6. Demonstrated commitment to civil rights and the ability to work with individuals with a variety of disabilities and backgrounds.
7. Interpersonal skills necessary to provide effective legal representation to people with disabilities. Ability to respond to confrontational situations and stressful interactions.
8. Ability to maintain confidential information.
9. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, in writing and orally, with or without accommodation.
10. Demonstrated ability to respond in an empathetic/compassionate manner, while maintaining neutrality and composure, to sensitive situations, emotionally charged issues, etc.
11. Technological skills necessary to create high-quality correspondence, legal documents, and educational materials; ability to effectively use DRM’s case management system and relevant computer programs.
12. Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
13. Ability to successfully manage multiple priorities and demands with varying deadlines.
14. Demonstrated interest and commitment to public interest law (preferably in the area of disability rights) preferred. This includes experience at a legal services organization or similar non-profits.
15. Experience as a person with a disability, or experience working with or living with persons with disabilities, preferred.
16. Successful completion of background check.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
1. Normal office environment; telework may be available with prior approval.
2. Work involves travel to various locations throughout the State with some exposure to adverse weather, traffic hazards, and the like. Minimal exposure to injury and/or communicable diseases when using standard precautions.
3. Evening and weekend hours may be required.
Requirements
Disability Rights Michigan (DRM) has an immediate opening for a full-time attorney. This is a five-year position, funded by grants from the State Bar Foundation and a private donor, to focus on Medicaid litigation and advocacy. The position may be extended beyond five years if funding permits.
Candidate must have a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited school of law and be admitted to practice law in Michigan. Minimum three years’ relevant litigation experience, ideally involving complex litigation, 1983 litigation, Medicaid Act litigation, and/or ADA/Olmstead litigation. Administrative hearing experience is highly desired.
Salary range is $70,000-$77,000. Candidates with significantly more relevant experience may be considered for a Senior Attorney position (salary range is $87,000-$95,000). Excellent benefits. Office located in Lansing, but position is hybrid with flexibility.
DRM is the agency designated by the Governor of the State of Michigan to protect and advocate for the legal rights of individuals with disabilities.
