What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant General Counsel position at WV Department of Human Services?
Assistant General Counsel: Champion the Mission of Human Services
Strategic Counsel. Public Impact. Leadership Excellence.
The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) is looking for a sharp, mission-driven attorney to serve as Assistant General Counsel. In this high-visibility role, you won’t just practice law—you will provide the legal framework that allows our state to care for its most vulnerable populations.
Based in the heart of Charleston, you will act as a key strategic partner to executive leadership, ensuring that our vital healthcare and social service programs operate with integrity, transparency, and legal excellence.
The Role: Your Impact
As Assistant General Counsel, you will oversee legal and compliance matters, manage risk, and serve as the primary liaison with DoHS’s Office of General Counsel, state agencies, and external partners. Your work directly influences the delivery of critical benefits and social services across the Mountain State.
- Strategic Advisory: Provide counsel on complex operational issues, legislative shifts, and regulatory requirements.
- Legal Architecture: Draft and interpret the contracts, policies, and legislative proposals that drive the Department's mission.
- Regulatory Guardrail: Navigate high-stakes compliance landscapes, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, to protect the privacy and rights of West Virginians.
- Agency Representation: Manage administrative proceedings and collaborate with the Office of the Attorney General on critical litigation.
- Information Governance: Oversee responses to subpoenas, public records requests (FOIA), and legal inquiries.
What You Bring
We are seeking a principled professional who balances rigorous legal analysis with commitment to public service.
- Education: Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Bar Admission: Licensed to practice in West Virginia (in good standing).
- Experience: 3–5 years of legal experience is preferred. We value backgrounds in health, behavioral health, or human services; government/public sector law; or administrative and regulatory compliance. 3L students are encouraged to apply!
- Skillset: A proven ability to distill complex legal issues into practical, actionable solutions for executive leadership.
Why Choose West Virginia DoHS?
State service offers a rewarding career path with unique stability and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your life inside and outside the office.
- Retirement & Security: Secure your future with the State PERS Pension Plan and a robust retirement framework.
- Comprehensive Health: High-quality medical, dental, and vision insurance through PEIA.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy generous annual and sick leave policies, plus 12 paid holidays every year.
- Professional Investment: We support your ongoing growth with CLE coverage and professional development opportunities.
- Competitive Salary: Commensurate with your experience and the value you bring to the state.
Location: Charleston, WV (In-person)
Lead with integrity. Serve with purpose. Apply today.