Job Summary
The Litigation Division is the primary means by which the People's Counsel fulfills the Office's mission, function and statutory responsibilities with respect to trial and appellate representation of District of Columbia consumers and ratepayers. The Assistant People's Counsel works under the supervision of the Director of Litigation in furtherance of the People's Counsel's goals, objectives, and policies, the incumbent independently manages, initiates, develops, plans, organizes, supervises, and completes duties and assignments of the Litigation Division. The incumbent is responsible for completion of all litigation duties and assignments. Work is reviewed for timeliness, completeness, accuracy and effectiveness.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Case Management: In consultation with the Director of Litigation, devises case-related strategies and makes recommendations on the initiation of proceedings on behalf of District ratepayers. Maintains familiarity with emerging public utility issues, cases, and legal developments. Prepares pleadings and related documents for submission to the Public Service Commission, courts and other agencies. Performs trial activities including pretrial discovery, briefs, motions, technical reports and studies, cross-examination, expert testimony and oral arguments. Provides guidance to junior staff attorneys in litigation activity.
Federal Practice: In consultation with the Director of Litigation, the incumbent manages all federal and regional electric regulatory and policy matters, including but not limited to: active participation and voting in the PJM Interconnection stakeholder process; routine participation in activities of the Consumer Advocates of the PJM States, Inc.; representation of District ratepayers before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Federal Trade Commission and/or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy; and working with national consumer advocacy and environmental organizations on federal-level energy initiatives. Incumbent is the primary advisor to OPC directors on federal and regional electricity market matters.
External Communication Outreach: Attends various legal/policy or legislative forums as scheduled, including evenings and weekend, throughout the District of Columbia. Participates in energy policy conferences and summits throughout the PJM footprint. Disseminates utility regulatory and consumer information to community organizations, legislators, District government officials, utility and energy companies, the Public Service Commission and other interested and affected parties. Initiates and maintains close contact with local and regional energy stakeholders to exchange information regarding issues that may generate litigation and/or legislative action. Promotes and fosters strong positive relationship between OPC and energy stakeholders. Contributes to OPC publications.
Contract Management: Handles all aspects of Division responsibility for D.C. Code, 2001 Ed. § 34-912 assessment function. Identifies, recommends and evaluates expert technical and legal consultants for participation in formal cases or investigations. Directs, supervises, and coordinates the work of independent contractors and technical consultants to ensure timely implementation of OPC policy. As needed, verifies contractor billings.
Interdivisional Communication: Maintains ongoing dialogue and communication with other supervisors, managers and staff to ensure the timely exchange of information and coordination of Office activities. Initiates, and upon request, conducts and participates in internal divisional briefing sessions on substantive issues affecting consumers.
Qualifications Excellent working knowledge of rate making and regulatory principles. Excellent ability to interpret utility data and to disseminate information. Superior skill in persuasive oral and written communication. Excellent research, analytic and evaluation skills. Excellent litigation skills, including skills related to discovery techniques, trial, and civil trial litigation. Ability to work with other staff in a teamoriented approach. Ability to make persuasive arguments to the legal community and the public. Ability to work with all consumers and staff of government agencies, including the ability to listen and to relate to differing viewpoints. Superior knowledge of utility law, administrative law, rules of evidence, rules of civil procedure, and regulatory guidelines.
Licensures, Certifications and other requirements Member in good standing, District of Columbia Bar or be eligible for waiver into the bar and written proof that application to waive in has been filed as soon as practicable, but no later than 45 days after acceptance of employment offer. Must remain a member of the DC Bar in good standing throughout tenure as Attorney.
Education Juris Doctor degree is required. Must be a graduate from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association
Work Experience Minimum of (5) five years' experience and expertise in energy efficiency and distributed energy resource technologies and experience in civil or administrative law litigation with emphasis on utility rate regulation
Work Environment The work is primarily sedentary and is typically performed in an adequately lighted and climate controlled office.
Information to Applicants A writing sample will be required.
EMPLOYMENT DISCLAIMER & INFORMATION FOR APPLICANTS
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PI97334911
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