Deputy Executive Assistant General Counsel (Appeals)
Description
Job Information
Deputy Executive Assistant General Counsel (Appeals)
Open Date: 7/11/2024
Close Date: Open Until Filled
Authority: TA
Department: Law
Division/Unit: Torts
Reports to: Deputy General Counsel
Work Location: 130 Livingston Street
Hours of work: As required
Summary
This position will provide support to the Deputy General Counsel, directly handle complex, high-exposure matters, and manage the appellate practice unit which handles litigation brought in federal and state trial and appellate courts related to various tort claims involving MTA agencies. The incumbent will have a very high level of expertise in all phases of tort litigation and appellate practice. The selected candidate will have extensive knowledge of substantive and procedural Federal, State and Local laws, and is abreast of the latest court decisions and how they may impact tort litigation. This position will also serve as the lead for legal guidance for senior management and a wide variety of mid-level management within the MTA.
Compensation
Salary Range - $185,000-$197,000
Responsibilities
- Manage and direct the tort appellate unit which handles cases and issues that significantly impact the MTA agencies’ financial exposure, public relations, policies and procedures and establishes legal precedent affecting not only the specific case defended but future cases brought against MTA agencies.
- Responsible for the direct handling of, and management of the team that handles, complex, high-exposure appeals and other litigation matters.
- Provide legal advice and counsel on the more complex and complicated matters pertaining to tort litigation. This will include recommendations on policy, procedures, and general legal matters as well as advice on litigation, appellate and insurance coverage, and indemnification matters.
- Critically analyze tort cases and develop, implement, and oversee defense strategies during all phases of litigation designed to protect the MTA agency’s appellate rights and to achieve the most favorable and cost-effective resolution of lawsuits and claims, in conformance with the most current legal precedent and ethical considerations.
- Coach and counsel in-house attorneys and legal staff.
- Oversee and manage outside counsel.
- Proactively advise appropriate parties of changes in the law and recommend policies and procedures in response to these changes.
- Effectively communicate and interact with external departments (i.e.: operations, courts) and will be responsible for the collection and preservation of information necessary to the defense of tort claims.
- Assist in the business goals of the MTA Legal Dept. in whatever manner as required by the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel - Torts.
- Work independently and collaboratively as part of a litigation team.
- Assist in the preparation of internal and external litigation reports.
- Perform other duties as assigned by senior management.
Education and Experience
A law degree and admission to the Bar of the State of New York. In addition, a minimum of twelve (12) years of progressively independent litigation experience after admission to the Bar, eight (8) years of managerial/supervisory experience and a minimum of three (3) years of significant and specialized Appellate court experience, preferably in the field of tort and governmental liability.
Preferred
Admission to the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York and the U.S. Court of
Appeals for the Second Circuit is desirable
Appeals for the Second Circuit is desirable
Experience defending municipalities, corporate entities and/or common carriers and experience litigating tort claims involving motor vehicle accidents and premises liability is preferred.
Desired Skills
- Proven ability to manage and handle a large volume, high-exposure, varied tort caseload and function independently and collaboratively as part of a litigation team, under pressure and tight time constraints imposed internally or by the Courts.
- Prior supervisory experience over a professional staff.
- Proven ability to communicate effectively and persuasively, both verbally and in writing.
- Proven ability to build and develop professional relationships necessary to litigation (i.e.: clients, adversaries, judiciary).
- Possess superior skills in the areas of case evaluation, litigation strategy and negotiation.
- Proven ability to forensically analyze medical records and varied technical information.
- Proven ability and command over all types of research including but not limited to legal research engines, general internet searches and investigative searches.
- Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or comparable applications, i.e.: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Other Information
Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).
Equal Employment Opportunity
MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.
The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.