Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

Amanda Reiss

South Dakota Public Utilities Commission
Pierre
15
years of professional experience

Dynamic legal professional with extensive experience as a Staff Attorney at the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. Expert in contract drafting and legal research, successfully negotiated favorable settlements and developed strong client relationships through effective communication and problem-solving. Proven ability to analyze complex legal issues and deliver impactful solutions in high-pressure environments.

Dedicated legal professional offering expertise in Type law. Proven success in building trusting rapport with clients and offering sound legal advice in clear and universal terms. Hardworking and dedicated to client advocacy.

Attorney adept at developing positive rapport with clients. Presents evidence clearly and practices sound and thorough case analysis techniques.

Astute Job Title provides legal counsel and support to clients. Skilled in researching and interpreting legal documents, resolving disputes and successfully negotiating settlements. Handles multiple tasks, prioritizes efficiently and meets tight deadlines.

Work History

Staff Attorney

10 Years 4 Months
South Dakota Public Utilities Commission | 06.2016 - Current
  • Analyzed utility statutes, regulations, and case records to support commission decisions and legal compliance.
  • Drafted orders, memoranda, pleadings, and correspondence for contested cases and rulemaking proceedings.
  • Reviewed rate filings, applications, and tariffs for accuracy, completeness, and statutory consistency.
  • Advised commissioners and staff on administrative law, open meetings, and regulatory procedure requirements.
  • Prepared legal research on jurisdictional issues, settlement terms, and public utility policy questions.
  • Participated in hearings, docket management, and evidentiary review to support timely case resolution.
  • Coordinated with parties, agencies, and counsel to clarify filings and resolve procedural issues.
  • Interpreted commission rules and governing law to guide decisions and maintain defensible records.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop strategies that effectively addressed complex legal issues.
  • Participated in settlement conferences, advocating for clients'' best interests while working towards mutually agreeable resolutions.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients through clear communication and proactive problem-solving approaches, fostering trust in our services.
  • Prepared administrative and judicial complaints advocating on behalf of organization and clients.
  • Drafted persuasive legal documents, including motions, briefs, and pleadings, ensuring proper formatting and accuracy.
  • Worked cooperatively with staff and other attorneys to achieve organizational objectives.
  • Established and maintained professional relationships with court personnel to build credibility.
  • Handled discovery requests promptly by reviewing documents for relevance or privilege before production to opposing parties.
  • Managed caseload efficiently by prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance while meeting strict deadlines.
  • Researched legal authorities, statutory, and case law and examined legal document drafts for compliance with procedural requirements.
  • Negotiated favorable settlements with opposing counsel, reducing litigation costs and saving time for clients.

Legislative Attorney

4 Years 9 Months
South Dakota Legislative Research Council | 09.2011 - 06.2016
  • Researched statutory issues and prepared concise legal memoranda for legislative counsel and committee review.
  • Drafted and revised bill language, amendments, and fiscal notes for legislative proposals.
  • Reviewed proposed legislation for constitutional compliance, statutory consistency, and drafting accuracy.
  • Advised legislators on legal implications, procedural requirements, and policy interpretation.
  • Supported committee hearings by summarizing testimony, tracking bill changes, and updating related materials.
  • Interpreted state and federal law to identify conflicts, gaps, and needed revisions in proposed measures.
  • Collaborated with research staff to organize legislative documents, case references, and statutory citations.
  • Managed complex caseloads effectively by prioritizing tasks and keeping organized records of case materials.
  • Developed strong working relationships with opposing counsel, fostering a collaborative environment for dispute resolution.

Education

J.D. - Law

Drake University | Des Moines, IA

Skills

Contract drafting
Legal research
Legal writing
Case analysis

Timeline

Staff Attorney

South Dakota Public Utilities Commission
06.2016 - CurrentRead More

Legislative Attorney

South Dakota Legislative Research Council
09.2011 - 06.2016Read More

Drake University

J.D. from Law
Read More
Amanda Reiss