Requisition No: 847463 

Agency: Justice Administrative Commission

Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 9TH CIRCUIT- GENERAL COUNSEL - 21013305

 Pay Plan: Pub.DefndrsJAC PIB

Position Number: 21013305 

Salary:  $140,000.00 

Posting Closing Date: 08/31/2025 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

 

Public Defenders Office – General Counsel Ninth Circuit - Orange and Osceola Counties

Position Summary:

 

The General Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor to the Office of the Public Defender, providing comprehensive legal counsel, representation, and guidance to agency leadership, employees, and related stakeholders. This role encompasses legal oversight in all agency operations, including human resources (HR) matters, contracts, compliance, and legislative affairs. The General Counsel is expected to manage and direct legal risks and ensure that the agency adheres to all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. This position is also responsible for advising on legislative initiatives, supporting the agency's legislative advocacy efforts, and ensuring compliance with state legislative changes.

 

Key Responsibilities:

 

1. Legal Counsel and Representation:
   • Provide legal advice and representation to the agency’s executive leadership, staff, and other internal stakeholders on a wide range of legal issues, including regulatory compliance, contract negotiations, public policy, and administrative law.
   • Represent the agency in administrative hearings, disputes, and litigation in both state and federal courts as required.
   • Review and draft agency policies, contracts, memoranda, and other legal documents to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
2. Human Resources (HR) Support:
   • Advise and assist the HR department on legal matters related to employment law, including discrimination, harassment, wage and hour regulations, workplace safety, employee benefits, and labor relations.
   • Provide guidance on employee performance management, discipline, terminations, and other HR issues while ensuring adherence to state and federal laws.
   • Assist with employee grievance processes, internal investigations, and dispute resolution.
3. Legislative Affairs and Policy Development:
   • Monitor and analyze relevant state and federal legislative developments that may impact the agency’s operations, and provide guidance on potential legal and regulatory changes.
   • Draft and review proposed legislative language, prepare testimony, and advise agency leadership on legislative strategy and advocacy.
   • Work closely with the agency’s government affairs team and other stakeholders to ensure alignment on legislative priorities.
4. Compliance and Risk Management:
   • Ensure that the agency’s policies and practices comply with all state, federal, and local laws and regulations.
   • Identify legal risks and advise on strategies to mitigate potential liabilities.
   • Coordinate with outside legal counsel as nee