Attorney III

About the position

The South Carolina Judicial Branch invites applications for Attorney III in the Office of Disciplinary Counsel. Under limited supervision and direction of Disciplinary Counsel, work to preserve the integrity of the South Carolina judicial system and the confidence of the public in the administration of justice, by screening and investigating allegations of ethical misconduct and incapacity of judges or lawyers, prosecuting formal charges and other duties as assigned. This job bulletin represents general duties for this position and is not intended to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Responsibilities

• Analyze complaints and other information alleging ethical misconduct by lawyers or judges in accordance with the Rules for Lawyer and Judicial Disciplinary Enforcement, determining whether to dismiss or open an investigation.
• Conduct thorough investigations into potential misconduct, including gathering and reviewing evidence such as documents, bank records, video or audio recordings, and witness statements.
• Draft notices of investigation, review responses from lawyers or judges, and draft petitions for interim suspensions when necessary, especially in cases involving risk to the public.
• Recommend case dispositions to the Commission on Lawyer Conduct or Judicial Conduct, including dismissal, letters of caution, or formal disciplinary actions, and negotiate agreements for discipline.
• Prepare and prosecute formal charges, participate in hearings by presenting opening statements, examining witnesses, and presenting closing arguments, as well as draft and submit Panel Reports.
• Prepare and draft petitions, briefs, and responses for consideration by the South Carolina Supreme Court and participate in oral arguments when necessary.
• Act as opposing counsel in proceedings involving reinstatement or readmission of lawyers before the Committee on Character and Fitness.
• Meet with and supervise office staff, including investigators and paralegals, providing direction on assignments and maintaining a professional, cooperative work environment.
• Represent the Office of Disciplinary Counsel in Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs, prepare training materials, and attend relevant trainings as required.
• Maintain accurate case notes and records using case management software.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Disciplinary Counsel or Deputy Disciplinary Counsel.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school and admission to the practice of law in South Carolina.
• Five (5) years of actual experience practicing law that includes screening potential cases, meeting with clients, interviewing witnesses, drafting pleadings and discovery, and appearing in court in jury or nonjury matters, or in administrative agencies.
• A familiarity with the South Carolina Rules of Professional Conduct, the Code of Judicial Conduct, and the application of the Rules to everyday practice of law issues, including a strong understanding of law office management issues.
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice-to-haves

• Trial (Civil or Criminal) experience.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children.
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs (Temporary positions have option to enroll).
• 15 days paid annual (vacation) leave per year.
• 15 days paid sick leave per year.
• Option to designate 10 days of earned paid sick leave per year as family sick leave.
• 13 paid state holidays.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Workers' Compensation Benefits.