Legal Basics for Human Services Directors and Administrators

Directors, administrators, and managers of public human services agencies are faced with complex decisions every day that require them to have a solid understanding of the law. This course is designed to provide leaders in local public health; social services; and mental health, developmental disabilities, and substance abuse services with an introduction to key areas of North Carolina law.

During the first two days of the program, topics will include

•   employment law
•   liability of public agencies, officials, and employees
•   budgeting and financial laws and practices
•   public records and open meetings
•   conflicts of interest
•   purchasing and contracting

In addition, the two-day agenda will include concurrent sessions tailored for the different human services agencies. These sessions will address foundational topics such as agency roles and responsibilities, governance, and confidentiality. 

Bottom Line!

On the morning of the third day, participants will have the opportunity to participate in a budget simulation workshop that uses Bottom Line!, SOG’s engaging new learning tool. Working in small groups, participants act as county commissioners who must work together to make decisions about the services and programs the county will provide. Workshop participants will be able to:

• understand the economic forces that are changing the way local government leaders think about their budgets
• explore the role of values in shaping a community’s vision and how such values may or may not guide budget decisions
• understand the complexity of group problem-solving as it relates to budgeting
• analyze possible short- and long-term consequences of budgetary decisions

Participants interested in joining the Bottom Line! Budget Exercise will need to pay an additional registration fee of $90.

Information about the Bottom Line! Budget Exercise