Public Records Division Staff Attorney

The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is seeking candidates for a Staff Attorney position in the Public Records Division (Division). The Division (Division) administers the updated Massachusetts Public Records Law. Under the authority of the Supervisor of Records (Supervisor), the Division processes and issues determinations on appeals from petitioners denied access to government records; responds to inquires involving the interpretation of public records statutes and regulations; and provides training to government employees and their agents throughout Massachusetts. The Staff Attorney will work in fast-paced, deadline driven environment and will be responsible for providing legal support to the Supervisor and Division in administering the Massachusetts Public Records Law.Representative TasksPerforms complex legal research involving state and federal case-law, statutes, regulations, Attorney General Opinions, Executive Orders and prior Supervisor DeterminationsReview appeals from public records requesters who have been denied access to government recordsDraft administrative Public Records Law determinations on issues including privacy, police records, settlement agreements, government contractsResponds to inquiries from records custodians, records requesters and general public relating to the Public Records LawProvides legal advice to the Supervisor on matters of first impressionConducts trainings for municipal and agency records access officers and others as requestedProvides general legal support for the Division, including the Commissions SectionSome in-state travel may be requiredPerforms other duties as assignedKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:Ability to communicate timely and effectively, both orally and in writingLaw Review or Journal experience preferredAbility to handle multiple assignments and meet deadlinesAbility to handle confidential material in a discreet and professional mannerMinimum Qualifications:Admission to the Massachusetts Bar preferred, but will consider recent graduatesAbout usThe Secretary of the Commonwealth's office comprises 23 departments across 19 locations around Massachusetts.As the third-ranking constitutional officer in Massachusetts, the Secretary of the Commonwealth serves as the chief election officer, chief information officer, and chief securities regulator in Massachusetts. Additionally, the office is charged with registering business entities and lobbyists, distributing grants for historic preservation, safeguarding the state's public records and artifacts, and much more.Whatever your background or area of interest, there is a place for you at the Secretary of the Commonwealth's office.Statement of Diversity and Anti-DiscriminationThe Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As a representative of the Commonwealth and its residents, the Office strives to ensure that those working in our office reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. The Office encourages applicants from a broad spectrum of backgrounds to apply for positions.It is the policy of The Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.Disability AccommodationQualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. We will gladly assist applicants in need of an accommodation. For assistance, contact ADA Coordinator Rebecca Murray at 617-727-2832 or please contact -19 Vaccination Requirement for EmploymentAs a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption.This position is not eligible for remote work.Total CompensationAs an employee of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you are offered a great career opportunity to influence a wide spectrum of services to the diverse populations we serve - but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that you should consider towards your overall compensation, including:75% state paid medical insurance premiumReasonable Dental and Vision PlansFlexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Assistance programsLow cost basic and optional life insuranceRetirement Savings: State Employees' Pension and a Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan12 paid holidays per year and Sick, Vacation, and Personal TimeTuition benefits for employee at state colleges and universitiesShort-Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation optionsIncentive-based Wellness ProgramsProfessional Development and Continuing Education opportunitiesQualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17