Assistant Legislative Counsel for the Republic of Palau

Job Overview

Staff attorneys with the Legislative Counsel office draft legislation, prepare legal opinions, advise the Senate on legal matters, represent the Senate in litigation, and provide other legal services as required.

Responsibilities

A staff attorney will:

• Perform legal research and render legal opinions on issues as requested by the Senate, its committees and members.
• Draft bills, resolutions, committee reports, speeches, and correspondence as requested.
• Assist with any pending litigation.
• Perform other duties as may be assigned by the presiding officers of the Senate.

Qualifications

• Must possess a Juris Doctor or comparable degree from an ABA or State accredited law school.
• Must be admitted to the practice of law and be a member in good standing of the Palau Bar, a Bar of the U.S. State or other jurisdiction, or be able to be licensed under the Republic of Palau Rules of Admission.
• All applicants must submit proof of good standing from any jurisdiction in which they are currently admitted to practice.
• Must possess demonstrated analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Must have practiced law at any time during the past 5 years.
• Experience drafting legislation is preferred, but not required.

Work Environment

About Palau

Set in the Micronesian region of the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is an independent country of approximately 20,000 people. Although the country's land mass is spread out over several hundred islands, the vast majority of people live in Palau's main city, Koror, and on the neighboring island of Babeldaob. One of Palau's most significant assets is its unspoiled natural environment.

In addition to the Rock Islands (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), beautiful ocean water, and pristine beaches, Palau boasts some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving sites in the world. Palau is also a popular destination for those interested in World War Il, as one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific theater occurred at Peleliu, in Palau. Relics from the war are still visible to tourists both on the land and under the water.

This year marks Palau's 31st year of independence, it is a stable, democratic country using a legal system derived from United States law. Although it is sovereign, Palau has a special relationship with the United States through a Compact of Free Association. This compact guarantees the rights of United States citizens to freely enter and work in Palau without a visa, and obligates the United States to provide for Palau's national security. Palau's close relationship with the United States is also reflected in the nation's use of English as a national language, and the U.S. dollar as its official currency. Per the Compact of Free Association, United States Citizens can represent the government of Palau without prior approval and are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

Presently, tourism is Palau's primary economic industry. In 2019, Palau welcomed a little under 100,000 tourists; given its location, the make-up of Palau's tourists is dominated by Asian countries, particularly Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China. The Palauan legal system is closely related to that of the United States, and lawyers licensed or trained in the United States generally do not experience difficulty in transitioning to practice in Palau.

Benefits

One Attorney to serve as ASSISTANT LEGAL COUNSEL. $47,000 - 65,000 annual salary (negotiable based on experience) inclusive of untaxed housing allowance. Travel and relocation expenses will be reimbursed. Minimum two (2) year contract required. This position qualifies the holder for Public Service Loan Forgiveness under regulations issued by the United States Department of Education.

About the Organization

The 12th Olbiil Era Kelulau Senate is the upper chamber of Palau’s bicameral legislature, composed of 15 independently members elected by the citizens of the Republic of Palau. Each member serves four-year terms. Senators are chosen through a nationwide multi-seat block-voting system in which each voter may cast one vote for up to each of the available seats. The body operates without political parties, and its work is guided by leadership positions such as the Senate president, vice president, and floor leader, who oversee legislative proceedings and coordination. The Senate conducts its business through a range of standing committees that address core areas of governance, policy, and oversight, and it convenes in 4 regular sessions and periodic special sessions each year to deliberate and enact laws for the nation.

How to Apply

All interested applicants shall submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample (preference is for a legal opinion or memo), and 2-3 references.

English, proficient.