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Chief Administrative Law Judge
The Chief Administrative Law Judge (Chief ALJ) serves as the highest-ranking judicial authority within the administrative adjudication system for the State of Arkansas. This role provides strategic leadership, oversight, and legal expertise in administrative hearings, ensuring consistency, fairness, and compliance with state and federal laws. The Chief ALJ supervises and mentors other ALJs, establishes procedural standards, and ensures the integrity of the administrative judicial process.
Class Code:
LAT07C
Job Grade:
SPC09
Special Job Requirements:
Typical Functions:
Preside over complex and high-profile administrative hearings, ensuring due process and legal compliance. Oversee the interpretation and application of Arkansas statutes, administrative rules, and case law. Provide guidance, mentorship, and training to Administrative Law Judges (ALJs) and legal staff. Conduct performance evaluations, case reviews, and professional development initiatives for ALJs. Assign cases, manage caseload distribution, and oversee judicial workflow efficiency. Act as the primary liaison between the administrative court system, state agencies, and the public. Develop, review, and revise administrative hearing policies, procedures, and legal standards. Monitor and adapt to changes in legislation, case law, and regulatory frameworks affecting administrative adjudication. Collaborate with state agencies, legislators, legal professionals, and executive leadership to improve adjudication processes. Represent the administrative court system in legislative hearings, policy discussions, and public forums.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Extensive knowledge of Arkansas administrative law, agency regulations, and constitutional principles. Proficiency in statutory interpretation, legal research, and drafting judicial opinions. Strong command of procedural rules, evidentiary standards, and case law precedent. Experience in government law, regulatory enforcement, and dispute resolution. Exceptional ability to evaluate legal arguments, interpret laws, and issue well-reasoned decisions. Strong capability to supervise, train, and support ALJs while fostering a professional and ethical work environment. Superior legal writing and oral advocacy skills for rulings, policies, and stakeholder discussions. Expertise in managing disputes, facilitating settlements, and maintaining courtroom decorum. Ability to prioritize and manage a high volume of legal cases, hearings, and administrative duties.
Minimum Qualifications:
Must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school, plus seven years of experience in conducting administrative law hearings.
Required Certificates:
Must be licensed as an Attorney in the State of Arkansas. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Exempt:
E