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Chief Legal Counsel I (LAT08C)

Date: Jul 1, 2025

Req ID: 50197

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72205

Category: DEPT OF AGRICULTURE

Anticipated Starting Salary: $138,412

Position Number: 22181808

County: Pulaski

Posting End Date: Open Until Filled

Anticipated Starting Salary: $138,412

Legal

Hiring Authority:

1 Natural Resources Drive

Little Rock, AR 72205

Phone: 501/219-6362

Email: [email protected]

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Job Series:Attorneys – Competitive

Classification:Administrative Law Judge

Class Code:LAT08C

Pay Grade:SPC10

Salary Range:$138,412 - $204,851

Job Summary

The Chief Legal Counsel I is responsible for overseeing all legal matters, providing expert legal advice and guidance to senior leadership, and other stakeholders on issues pertaining to operations, regulatory compliance, and state and federal laws. The Chief Legal Counsel I will serve as the primary legal advisor to the Secretary, ensuring that all operations are in full compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards. This individual will also be responsible for managing legal risks, drafting and reviewing legal documents, and representing the department in legal proceedings.

Primary Responsibilities

Serve as the primary legal resource for ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations governing lottery operations and gaming activities. Advise on legal matters related to the development, implementation, and management of new and existing lottery games and marketing strategies. Provide legal counsel in the drafting, review, and negotiation of contracts with vendors, service providers, and other external stakeholders. Manage the legal risks associated with department operations and advise on appropriate risk mitigation strategies. Develop and maintain comprehensive internal policies, procedures, and legal documentation to ensure legal compliance across all departments. Represent the department in legal proceedings, including litigation, administrative hearings, and negotiations with outside counsel, when necessary. Handle disputes and legal challenges involving the department’s operations, including vendor disagreements, intellectual property issues, and regulatory challenges. Oversee the drafting, negotiation, and execution of all legal agreements, including contracts with vendors, lottery retailers, marketing partners, and other third parties. Ensure that all contracts comply with state procurement laws and protect the interests of the department, focusing on transparency, fairness, and risk mitigation. Advise senior leadership on matters related to ethics, transparency, and corporate governance to ensure the integrity and accountability of department operations. Oversee the development and enforcement of ethical standards and policies within the department, ensuring compliance with state ethics rules, public transparency, and responsible conduct. Address any legal or ethical concerns raised by employees, stakeholders, or the public, and ensure appropriate actions are taken.

Knowledge and Skills

Deep understanding of state and federal laws and regulations governing the department. Expertise in contract law, administrative law, compliance, litigation, and ethics. Ability to interpret complex legal issues and provide clear, actionable legal guidance. Ability to think strategically and make legal decisions that support the goals of the department while mitigating legal risks. Strong decision-making skills, with the ability to balance legal considerations with operational needs. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders in a clear and concise manner. Strong presentation skills for delivering legal advice and reports to senior leadership, the department, and external stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

Must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school, plus five years of experience in law hearings, regulatory compliance. Government contracts, or a related field.

Licensure/Certifications

Must be licensed as an Attorney in the State of Arkansas. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market:Little Rock