Senior Attorney Administrative

SENIOR ATTORNEY ADMINISTRATIVE

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:

This position is responsible for preparing, prosecuting, and defending complex cases and providing a wide range of complex legal services to the City. Responsibilities may include case preparation; reviewing documents for legal implications; preparation of opinions on complex legal matters; and appearing in court for assigned cases.  May supervise others. Cases of focus include impacts city-wide, including Freedom of Information Act compliance, litigation defense, contractual law, and real estate matters.

TYPICAL CLASS ESSENTIAL DUTIES:            (See job description for complete specs)

• May supervise staff to include: prioritizing and assigning work; coordinating staff training; and supporting personnel procedures.
• Performs case preparation of assigned areas, including: reviewing and preparing documents; performing discovery, comprehensive legal research, and trial advocacy; and performing related tasks.
• Argues motions in court; and performs related tasks.
• Administers legal aspects of a worker’s compensation, tax, civil liability, or other areas, as assigned.
• Investigates various claims against the City and recommends appropriate legal action.
• Reviews insurance coverage and related contracts to ensure proper protection of the City; negotiates, prepares, and approves real estate transaction documents.
• Provides a wide range of legal guidance to City departments and staff; including preparing resolutions, ordinances, and legal opinions.
• Work with outside counsel and governmental agencies.
• Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance, including attendance at required meetings.

This job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

Juris Doctor (JD) degree and 5 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.  Municipal legal experience preferred.

LICENSING REQUIREMENTS:

• Licensed to practice law in Michigan
• Admission to practice before U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan (to be obtained within one year)
• Admission to practice before U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit (to be obtained within one year)

Valid State of Michigan Driver’s License