What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hawaii House of Representatives Legislative Attorney - Minority Caucus position at Hawaii State Capitol?
The House Minority Research Office of the Hawaii State House of Representatives is seeking a Legislative Attorney to support the Republican Caucus in delivering thoughtful, well-researched public policy for the people of Hawaii.
This is a high-impact, research-heavy role where you will:
- Draft and review legislation, resolutions, and floor amendments.
- Analyze complex state and federal laws, policy proposals, and media.
- Advise elected officials on the pros and cons of bills and policy options.
- Help shape public policy that affects residents across the State of Hawaii.
Sessions (January–May) are fast-paced and high-pressure, while the interim period offers opportunities to focus on deeper research and long-term projects.
For many, this role is a career launch pad for attorneys seeking experience in public service, legislation, and policy, with many alumni moving on to other opportunities in law, government, or advocacy.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Draft & review legislation.
- Draft bills, resolutions, floor amendments, and legal memoranda.
- Ensure proposals are accurate, coherent, and conform to legislative drafting standards.
- Research & policy analysis.
- Conduct in-depth legal and legislative research on state, federal, and local issues.
- Identify trends, risks, and opportunities in public policy.
- Prepare concise briefing materials and talking points for Caucus members.
- Advise elected officials.
- Provide an objective, balanced analysis of the proposed legislation.
- Clearly explain complex legal and technical concepts to non-lawyers.
- Support Caucus members in forming positions that are in the best interests of Hawaii residents.
- Collaborate with a professional research team.
- Participate in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Contribute to strategy sessions, hearings preparation, and stakeholder communications.
Minimum Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
- Licensed to practice law in Hawaii, with successful completion of the Hawaii Bar Examination
- Hawaii resident
- Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to:
- Explain technical and specialized concepts quickly and clearly
- Produce high-quality written work under tight deadlines
- Multitask, manage projects, maintain confidentiality, and communicate clearly and concisely
- Basic understanding of legislation and how a bill becomes law
- Objectivity and the ability to present balanced perspectives on policy issues
- Adaptable team player who thrives in a collaborative environment
Preferred/Additional Qualifications
- Familiarity with federal, state, and county laws, rules, and government structures.
- Knowledge of legislative drafting techniques.
- Prior legislative, government, or parliamentary procedure experience.
- Basic understanding of Hawaii's political and policy issues.
- Ability to stay level-headed under pressure, especially during legislative session (January–May).