Legal Intern
The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) is one of Georgia's four health agencies serving the state's growing population of almost 10 million people. DCH serves as the lead agency for Medicaid, oversees the State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP), and includes Healthcare Facility Regulation, impacting one in four Georgians. Through effective planning, purchasing and oversight, DCH provides access to affordable, quality health care to millions of Georgians, including some of the state's most vulnerable and under-served populations. Six enterprise offices support the work of the agency's four program divisions. DCH employees are based in Atlanta and across the state.
DCH is currently seeking qualified applicants for the Legal Intern position with the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD). This is a hybrid position that requires in-office and remote work with the approval of your supervisor. Your days of frequency in the office can change at any time during your employment based on the business needs of the organization.
Unlock YOUR potential, Earn Course Credits:
The DCH Internship Program is strategically designed to offer a blend of challenges and rewards, enriching the educational journey while contributing to the agency's goals. It's a win-win for everyone involved!
Guided Growth:
Under the guidance of HFRD’s Legal Services Director, legal interns undertake a range of responsibilities that facilitate their understanding of Georgia’s processes related to regulatory compliance at healthcare facilities such as nursing homes, hospitals, dialysis centers, personal care homes, and many others. These day-to-day activities contribute to the heart of DCH’s mission, providing invaluable assistance. The internship provides participating interns with valuable learning experiences, the opportunity to contribute to the agency's mission. The immersive experience lets students collaborate with skilled mentors while exploring diverse units within our department.
From Interns to Professionals:
DCH provides an opportunity for upcoming graduates through contingent hires, enabling a smooth transition into becoming active employees. Our selection process for these roles places emphasis on outstanding dedication and performance.
Job Responsibilities
Under general supervision, the legal intern provides analysis and/or recommendations on legal issues within the scope and authority of the agency. The intern will learn about the daily affairs in the Healthcare Facility Regulatory legal field. Though specific work will differ each semester, writing and research skills are major components of all legal internships. As a legal intern, you will work to accomplish tasks such as:
- Handle paperwork and help Attorneys with projects sometimes of a sensitive nature.
- Help draft and proof-read pleadings and legal documents.
- Prepare responses to information requests received by the department (i.e.: Open Records Requests [ORR]).
- Observe and participate in client meetings, trials, mediations, and outreach.
- Research relevant case law and draft legal analysis and conclusions.
- Provide general support to Legal Unit.
Minimum Qualifications
Student must be enrolled in a Georgia high school, technical college, or university/college. Student must be currently enrolled during internship. For this position, all interns must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful resident.
- Candidate must be enrolled in an accredited law school and pursuing a JD or LLM.
- Must have a minimum Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) of 2.5 on 4.0 grading scale, a 3.5 on a 5.0 grading scale, or equivalent grading scale.
- Comfortable with handling confidential documents and under confidentiality obligations.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to candidates, who in addition to meeting the qualifications listed above, possess the following:
- Knowledge of Local, State and Federal laws, ordinances, statutes, and court decisions relating to Healthcare Regulatory Laws.
- Knowledge of Georgia’s Sunshine Laws (Open Records Act)
Compensation:
- Sophomore - $15 per hour for a maximum of 29 hours a week.
- Junior - $16 per hour for a maximum of 29 hours a week.
- Senior - $17 per hour for a maximum of 29 hours a week.
- Graduate or Law - $18 -$20 per hour for a maximum of 29 hours a week.