provide legal opinions and advice to program and department staff; serve as lead counsel in civil litigation matters involving the department; represent the department before the Office of Hearing Examiners and in trial and appellate courts; draft legislation and administrative rules; draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and appellate filings; participate in lobbying activities as needed; conduct discovery, take and defend depositions, and manage case strategy from inception through resolution; handle evidentiary hearings, trials, and oral arguments; draft program policies and procedures; assist with Request for Proposals processes; ensure compliance with federal and state statutes and administrative rules; participate in administrative and court hearings related to regulatory actions involving patient registration and medical cannabis establishments; assist in drafting contracts and joint powers agreements; collaborate with other state agencies; provide guidance on administrative rules, rule promulgation, and legislative matters; other duties as assigned. Abilities: communicate clearly and concisely; prepare clear and concise documentation, reports, and correspondence; analyze facts, evidence, and precedents to form logical interpretations; work effectively with program staff, private attorneys, and court officials; work independently while following instructions and accepting guidance; interact tactfully and professionally with others; manage a large caseload efficiently; uphold high levels of professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment.