Description:
Description:The Attorney General is the chief legal officer of the State of Maryland. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) has the general charge, supervision, and direction of the State's legal business, acting as legal advisors and representatives of the major agencies, various boards, commissions, officials, and institutions of State Government. The OAG also protects the public by civil enforcement of antitrust, civil rights, consumer protection, and securities laws and regulations and by the prosecution of organized crime, Medicaid fraud, environmental crimes, insurance fraud, state tax evasion, and other statutorily assigned matters. As Maryland's 47th Attorney General, Anthony G. Brown leads the Office with a critical focus on equity, justice, and fairness.
The OAG is seeking a dedicated and experienced Assistant Attorney General (AAG) to join its team representing the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS). This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful public service by protecting Maryland's most vulnerable citizens and shaping policies that impact families statewide.
DHS is Maryland's executive agency for social services, public assistance, and child support programs. It oversees child welfare, foster care, adoption, adult protective services, and programs that promote family stability and self-sufficiency. DHS also administers SNAP, medical assistance eligibility, energy assistance, and workforce initiatives, ensuring essential services reach those who need them most.
As an AAG, you will represent DHS, its local departments of social services, and their officials and employees in State and federal trial and appellate courts. You will serve as a key legal advocate for DHS and the local departments in a diverse range of litigation, including complex, high-stakes matters—from complex child systemic welfare litigation and class actions to cases arising under the Child Victims Act, as well as cases arising under the Maryland Tort Claims Act and federal civil rights statutes, in addition to employment, personnel, child support, and public assistance issues, and contract or procurement disputes.
Additionally, the responsibilities may include representing DHS and the local departments in administrative hearings and judicial review proceedings arising from administrative hearings before the Office of Administrative Hearings and federal appeals boards, ensuring strong, consistent advocacy across every forum. You will also handle matters involving the Public Information Act, subpoenas for records and testimony, and provide legal advice on child welfare, adult services, and other critical programs. Additional responsibilities may also include reviewing and drafting legislation, regulations, and policies to support DHS's mission and representing DHS and the local departments in appellate matters before the Appellate Court of Maryland and the Supreme Court of Maryland.
The AAG will join a collaborative legal team comprising Principal Counsel, four Deputy Principal Counsel, an Assistant Deputy Principal Counsel, two supervising attorneys, 15 AAGs attorneys, a paralegal, and five administrative professionals.
This role is ideal for attorneys who thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy complex litigation, and want to make a tangible difference in the lives of Maryland residents.
Classification: Assistant Attorney General III
Experience: The ideal candidate for this role will have a minimum of four years of experience, including litigation experience, excellent research and writing skills, and a demonstrated ability to handle complex issues. Trial experience in state and federal court is desired. Experience in public sector legal work, particularly within social services or government agencies, as well as knowledge of child welfare law—including handling cases involving child abuse and neglect proceedings, foster care, and family law matters—is a plus. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, along with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced legal environment, are essential. Admission to the Maryland Bar, or ability to waive in, is required.
Submission: Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample, and a list of three professional references, including at least one current or former supervisor. Please note that this job posting will come offline at 6:00 p.m. EST on the closing date.
Telework: Hybrid Work – two in-office days weekly.