U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2013 Spring Semester Legal Extern Program
DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM:
The HHS Office of Counsel to the Inspector General (OCIG) seeks two to three 2Ls or 3Ls for its 2013 Spring Semester Legal Extern Program. The positions are unpaid and applicants must be participating in a school sponsored, for-credit externship program. Although program dates are flexible, selected applicants must commit to working a minimum of 32 hours per week. Legal Externs will investigate cases with OCIG attorneys, perform legal research, write legal memorandums, and draft briefs.
OCIG has 65 attorneys and is organized into 3 branches. Each extern will have an opportunity to work in all branches. The Administrative and Civil Remedies Branch handles civil fraud and abuse cases involving Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs; works with the Department of Justice in the global resolution of civil False Claims Act cases; initiates administrative cases; and defends the decision to exclude providers from participating in Federal health care programs. The Advice Branch provides legal advice on issues such as the scope and exercise of OIG’s authorities and responsibilities; investigative techniques, procedures, and conduct; audits and inspections; and the impact of legislative proposals. The Industry Guidance Branch issues advisory opinions to health care providers on whether an activity constitutes grounds for sanction under the Anti-Kickback Statute, Civil Monetary Penalties Law, or other authorities, and provides legal advice to the HHS and the Department of Justice on the Anti-Kickback Statute.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be in their second or third-year of law school (or equivalent for evening/part-time programs) or in an LL.M. program. Applicants must be participating in a school sponsored, for-credit externship program. Applicants must commit to working at OCIG for a minimum of 32 hours per week for 10-12 weeks. A demonstrated interest in health care law and public service is a plus.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Submit cover letter, resume, unofficial transcript, and five-page writing sample by September 21, 2012. A committee of attorneys reviews the applications and selects candidates for telephone interviews, if necessary. On-site, in-person interviews may also be granted; however, no travel reimbursement is available.
Submit by Mail:
Tylitha Welch Office of Counsel to the Inspector General U.S.Dept. of Health & Human Services 330 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 5527 Washington, DC 20201For additional information, please visit the website.