Legal Specialist

Pay Grade: Pay Based on Experience 
Work Days:  226

Primary Purpose:
Manage and oversee the district's Open Records and Public Information Request (ORR/PIR) processes from intake through completion. Ensure timely, accurate, and compliant responses in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act, FERPA, and other applicable state and federal laws. Serve as the primary point of coordination with legal counsel, campuses, departments, and external agencies. 

Qualifications:
Education/Certification:

• Paralegal certification or equivalent preferred
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Strong knowledge of the Texas Public Information Act, FERPA, and applicable state and federal laws and regulations
• Understanding of legal systems and ability to interpret legal documents
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and tracking systems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively with legal counsel, staff, and the public
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion

Experience:

• Experience in a legal, compliance, or public-sector setting preferred
• Experience in a Texas public school district preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Open Records & Public Information (Primary Responsibility)

• Manage all Open Records and Public Information Requests (ORR/PIR) from intake through completion in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act
• Maintain tracking systems, monitor deadlines, and ensure timely and compliant responses in coordination with campuses, departments, and legal counsel.
• Review and organize records; coordinate legal review for redactions, exceptions, and Attorney General submissions as required.
• Prepare and deliver final responses to requestors with accuracy, consistency, and professionalism
• Maintain documentation and case files related to all public information requests.

Legal and Compliance Support

• Coordinate subpoena responses, FERPA-related requests, and processing of legal documents including court orders and agency records requests
• Support legal counsel with document preparation, records compilation, and coordination for legal matters and agency inquiries
• Assist campuses in implementing legal requirements related to student records and court orders
• Maintain accurate documentation related to legal and compliance matters as needed

Systems, Communication, and Support

• Maintain case management and tracking systems to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely completion of all requests
• Serve as a resource to campuses and departments on public information and legal compliance processes
• Monitor legal and policy updates and assist in updating procedures to ensure compliance
• Draft correspondence, reports, and communications related to assigned responsibilities
• Identify and recommend process improvements to increase efficiency, consistency, and compliance

Other

• Maintain confidentiality in all legal matters
• Follow district policies and procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None

Equipment Used:

• Computer, printer, copier and fax

Working Conditions:
Mental Demands:

• Reading; ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written); maintain emotional control under stress, and work with frequent interruptions

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: 

• Occasional district-wide and/or statewide travel; frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing and pulling; prolonged use of a computer and repetitive hand motions; Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds

SM051226