Job at a glance
The Senate Office of the Legislative Counsel (SOLC) is responsible for drafting and editing nearly all legislation considered by the Senate. The SOLC is a nonpartisan and nonpolitical office of the Senate, comprised of approximately 45 attorneys who serve all Members, committees, and staff of the Senate. An SOLC Staff Attorney works as part of a team of 7 to 8 other attorneys who specialize in various areas of Federal law, with assistance and mentoring provided by a more senior attorney.
Major duties: The position of Staff Attorney is full-time, with substantial evening and weekend overtime occasionally required to serve the needs of the Senate. The responsibilities of an SOLC Staff Attorney include the following: Drafting and editing bills, resolutions, conference reports, and amendments for committees, Members, and staff of the Senate. Analyzing proposed legislation for legal sufficiency and constitutionality.
Researching the law and its development in relation to a proposal being analyzed or drafted. Working closely with SOLC attorneys and Senate staff to analyze proposed policy and its implications, in order to produce professional quality legislation. Requirements: Before joining the Office as a Staff Attorney, an applicant must be a graduate of an ABA-accredited law school. Not later than 1 year after joining the Office, a Staff Attorney must be a member in good standing of a State bar.
Education: See 'Qualifications' for requirements.