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- 25141839 Requisition #
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- 5 days ago Post Date
The Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions (Division) seeks an experienced Attorney to provide legal services in the regulation of financial services companies operating in Montana.
This role is pivotal, offering the opportunity to analyze complex legal issues and provide informed opinions to the Commissioner of Banking on matters such as permissible activities, rulemaking, licensing, supervision, and enforcement.
As legal counsel for the Division, you will engage in a variety of responsibilities that include representing and litigating cases in administrative, state, and federal courts; preparing legal pleadings, motions, and briefs; as well as drafting, interpreting, and implementing legislation. Your expertise will be crucial in reviewing federal regulations for interaction with state law; providing analysis and advice on the impact of legal and regulatory changes; and providing guidance on agreements with partner agencies. This position not only demands a strong legal acumen but also offers a unique opportunity to shape public policy in the financial services space.
Key Responsibilities Include (but are not limited to):
Legal Analysis: Identify issues and prepare memoranda regarding questions of law raised related to Montana’s banking, credit union, mortgage and consumer finance statutes, as well as other state and federal laws.
Rulemaking: Draft rules that implement legislative intent; ensure compliance with the Montana Administrative Procedures Act; provide guidance to the Commissioner and regulated entities regarding the rulemaking process and rule content.
Licensing: Review licensing decisions for compliance with state law; draft pleadings, motions and briefs in contested cases; engage in negotiations with licensees.
Corporate Applications and Mergers: Provide advice and approvals on legal parameters and constraints for financial institution operations in Montana in accordance with statutes and rules; assist in drafting and interpreting constitutional provisions, legislation, rules, and policies.
Consultation and Communication: Provides regulatory guidance to the Commissioner, legislators, supervised entities, other state agencies, and policymakers.
Education and Experience:
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
- Admission to practice law in Montana or admission within one year from the date of hire.
- Three (3) years’ legal experience, preferably in financial services, licensing, administrative laws and procedures; compliance; and/or corporate structure.
- Expertise in litigation, policy development, and legislative processes.
- Strong research, analytical, and communication skills.
· Alternate combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Competencies:
Knowledge of:
· State statutes and regulations governing financial services companies doing business in Montana;
· State and federal civil court litigation, including courtroom practice and procedure, Montana and Federal Rules of Civil and Appellate Procedure, Montana and Federal Uniform District Court Rules, and Montana and Federal Rules of Evidence;
· Knowledge of the conduct of state administrative proceedings under the Montana Administrative Procedures Act and Attorney General’s Model Rules; and
· Knowledge of general corporate requirements applicable to for-profit and not-for-profit corporations in Montana and special requirements for banks and credit unions.
Ability to:
· Demonstrate independent judgment and strong decision-making in complex legal and regulatory matters;
· Anticipate legal risks and develop proactive solutions;
· Represent organizational interests in negotiations and mediated settlements;
· Interpret statutes, rules and case law and assess their implications for operations and policies;
· Adapt to handle evolving legal and regulatory landscapes; and
· Collaborate with senior leadership and provide strategic guidance.
Skills:
· Exceptional ability to draft clear, concise legal documents;
· Strong verbal communication skills to explain complex legal concepts to diverse audiences including non-lawyers;
· Skill in developing case strategies, conducting discoveries, negotiating settlements and presenting cases in court; and
· Skills providing legislative testimony and advising on policy initiatives
Does this sound like you?
Please tell us how and why by submitting your resume, cover letter, and three professional business references. (Please Note: You do not need to complete the “work experience” or the “education & certifications” portion of the application process in our recruiting system. You only need to upload the requested documentation.)
In this position you will be afforded the opportunity to telework, however there will be required weekly in-office days in Helena. Specific conditions will be outlined as part of the job offer and must adhere to state policy.
