THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON
ADMINISTRATIVE AND PROFESSIONAL (NON-TEACHING) JOB DESCRIPTION
TITLE: Attorney for the Students
CODE: 0618
FUNCTION: Provide legal advice and counsel to currently enrolled University students.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This position reports to the Dean of Students and
involves advising students in regard to Texas statutory and common laws plus their legal rights.
This involves a generalist scope in various areas of the law such as consumer protection, traffic,
criminal, torts, landlord-tenant, taxation, employee rights, immigration, insurance, family and
constitutional (due process). Familiarity with courts, court procedures, and appellate procedures is
important. Additional, a grasp of mediation theory and practice is essential. The office is a
learning laboratory where students are guided through their legal problems in addition to the
administrative and judicial maze in order to effectively deal with the current legal situation plus
legal agendas in the future. Where immediate legal representation is needed, referral is made to
the area (Arlington and Tarrant/Dallas County) bar association referral service or several
practicing attorneys in the student’s legal area. Responsibilities also include the review of legal
documents, and the distribution of current legal self-help aids written by the Attorney for the
Students. Outside contacts with law enforcement personnel, attorneys and judges, county and
district clerks, plus state agencies and officials are essential to the effective operation of the
office. It is important that students be alerted to the need for counsel at an early state of any
controversy they might encounter. Other related duties are assigned ad-hoc by the Dean of
Students.
Additional Responsibilities: Monitors and evaluates results and plans as necessary. Organizes,
coordinates, manages, and directs the day-to-day operations of assigned areas. Develops and
administers policies and procedures; advises and consults with supervisor regarding plans, issues
and problems associated with assigned area; maintains effective relationship with external,
regulatory and funding bodies as required.
ACCOUNTABILITY
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
REPORTS TO: Dean of Students
INTERNAL CONTROL:
Responsible for the design, execution, and effectiveness of a system of internal controls which
provides reasonable assurance that department operations are effective and efficient, department
assets are safeguarded, department financial information is reliable, and the department complies
with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Generally normal working hours; some conference travel
necessary for maintaining professional license. Occasional evening hours required for client
consultation and meeting with campus organizations.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree, current license with the
State Bar of Texas, and a minimum of two years practice experience required. Desire emphasis
on consumer protection, criminal law, landlord-tenant, traffic, tort and domestic relations.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Maintain all licensing requirements and adhere to prescribe
standards of professional responsibility. A security sensitive position.
DATE: March 25, 2006
OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Specific job requirements or physical location of position
allocated to this classification render the position security sensitive and thereby subject to the
provisions of Texas Education Code
§51.215.