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GovFirst

Deputy General Counsel

GovFirst See More Job Openings by This EmployerArrow
  • Full Time
  • Petaluma, CA
November 11, 2024 Attorney

Job Description

Title: Deputy General Counsel

Location: North Bay Area
Company: Confidential
Job Type: On-Site, requires occassional travel
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen

GovFirst is actively seeking a highly accomplished and experienced Deputy General Counsel to support a role in the North Bay Area. 


This pivotal role involves delivering expert legal advice across a wide array of matters, including contract law, labor law, civil law, tort law, and administrative law. As a key advisor to the organization, the Deputy General Counsel will support the General Counsel in managing legal affairs, crafting legal strategies, drafting essential documents, and representing the organization in court and administrative proceedings.

This position requires a deep understanding of public sector operations, exceptional legal expertise, and the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.



Requirements
The successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

  • Litigation and Legal Advocacy: Represent the organization in high-stakes legal proceedings, including litigation, arbitration, and administrative hearings. Provide comprehensive legal guidance to senior leadership, staff, and the Board of Directors on complex legal matters such as contract disputes, labor relations, land use, CEQA compliance, and public records laws.

  • Legal Research and Documentation: Conduct extensive legal research to provide well-reasoned opinions, draft motions and briefs, and prepare legal pleadings. Oversee case documentation, ensuring thorough preparation for court proceedings.

  • Contract and Agreement Oversight: Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, leases, memoranda of understanding, resolutions, and other legal agreements. Assess and mitigate risks associated with contractual obligations, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

  • Policy and Regulatory Compliance: Serve as a key legal advisor during policy development, drafting and implementing policies that align with organizational objectives and legal requirements. Ensure the organization’s compliance with federal and state regulations, including Title VI, and provide staff training on related legal matters.

  • Risk and Claims Management: Support the resolution of claims, oversee insurance-related matters, and ensure effective risk mitigation strategies are in place. Provide counsel on customer disputes and inquiries to achieve equitable resolutions.

  • Staff Supervision and Collaboration: Lead and mentor legal staff, ensuring high standards of performance and professional development. Collaborate with external counsel as needed and maintain strong relationships with government agencies and external partners.

  • Monitoring Legal Trends and Reporting: Stay informed on legislative changes and judicial rulings that impact the organization. Provide regular updates and detailed reports on legal matters to senior management and the Board of Directors.

Skills Required:
  • Proficiency in contract law, labor law, tort law, real estate law, and administrative law, particularly as applied to public agencies.
  • Strong understanding of compliance with laws enforced by agencies such as the California Public Utilities Commission and Federal Transit Administration.
  • Familiarity with state and federal court procedures, including the preparation and filing of legal documents.
  • Expertise in claims handling, insurance policies, and dispute resolution.
  • Demonstrated ability to draft and implement organizational policies and procedures.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal matters to diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to manage legal teams, foster collaboration, and coordinate with external counsel.

Education Required
  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
Experience Required:
  • At least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in civil and contract law, preferably within a public agency or law firm. Experience in the transit industry is a plus.

Licenses and Certifications Required:
  • Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California.
  • Eligibility for admission to the Federal District Court for the Northern District of California.
  • Valid California Class C driver’s license (required throughout employment).




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