General Counsel-President Pro Tempore

Overview

The General Counsel serves as the principal legal advisor to the President Pro Tempore and, by extension, the Majority Caucus of the Georgia Senate. The primary function of the General Counsel is to provide legal analysis of proposed legislation, advise on statutory construction and constitutional issues, and represent the interests of the President Pro Tempore and Majority Caucus in the drafting and negotiation of legislation with Legislative Counsel and other legal authorities.

While the General Counsel is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the President Pro Tempore, the position has traditionally functioned as a shared legal resource for the Majority Caucus, providing legal guidance to members and staff on legislative matters. The role is both advisory and strategic, requiring a deep understanding of Georgia law, legislative procedure, caucus priorities, and the political dynamics of the legislative process.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive legal analysis of proposed legislation, amendments, and substitutes, including constitutional, statutory, and procedural implications
• Advise the President Pro Tempore and Majority Caucus leadership on legal risks, enforceability, and policy impacts of legislation
• Review legislation for internal consistency, statutory conflicts, and alignment with existing Georgia law
• Work closely with Legislative Counsel to draft legislation reflecting the policy goals of the President Pro Tempore and the Majority Caucus
• Advocate on behalf of caucus leadership during the drafting process, including resolving legal disagreements with Legislative Counsel where necessary
• Assist in the development of legally sound amendments and floor substitutes under tight session timelines
• Serve as a legal resource to Majority Caucus members and staff on matters related to legislation, committee work, and floor activity
• Provide guidance on parliamentary procedure, bill referrals, and legislative rules as they intersect with legal considerations
• Assist leadership in responding to legal questions raised during committee hearings or floor debate
• Prepare the daily or periodic Whip Report for the Majority Caucus during the legislative session, including:
  • Summaries of legislation scheduled for floor consideration
  • Legal analysis of key provisions
  • Identification of legal or policy concerns relevant to caucus positioning

  • Coordinate with leadership offices to ensure accuracy and consistency of legal messaging

     

Educational Requirements and Preferred Experience

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school
• Member of a state bar (Georgia Bar Admissions preferred)
• Demonstrated understanding of law and the legislative process
• High degree of discretion, professionalism, and sound judgment

Application Process

Interested applications need to submit a resume and cover letter via e-mail (Senatestaffing@senate.ga.gov). The subject line of the email shall read, "General Counsel-Office of the Senate President Pro Tempore"