Attorney (Litigation)

Corporate New York, New York


Description

Position at The Port Authority of NY & NJ

About the Role
The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey Law Department (Authority) has a career opportunity for a highly qualified senior attorney to join its Manhattan-based 125+ person team.  Litigation attorneys at the Port Authority handle defense of the agency in a variety of areas, including personal injury claims arising at our transportation facilities and in our many activities regulated by state and federal authorities.  Attorneys also bring actions against a wide range of commercial counterparties.  The job requires significant time in court.
 
The selected candidate will have an ability to contribute in a meaningful way to current and future regional transportation programs and a broad array of initiatives that the Authority is undertaking in the New York-New Jersey region.
Responsibilities
  • Expert in civil procedure in state and federal courts in New York and New Jersey; excellent oral and written advocacy skills and significant court appearances, including trials.
  • Represent the Agency in state and federal court proceedings and administrative proceedings involving commercial matters in New York and New Jersey
  • Prepare cases for and manage litigation at all levels and at various stages, including but not limited to demand, mediation, motion practice, discovery, trial, and appeal
  • Manage significant financial, strategic, and reputational risks to the agency while eliciting input from key internal stakeholders and communicating effectively with senior management
  • Fully able to advise on litigation strategy and assess likelihood of prevailing in litigation
  • Able to negotiate settlements, including drafting and effectuating settlement agreements
  • Ensure the Port Authority conducts its business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Advise the General Counsel and other senior management on litigation matters pertaining to the Port Authority
  • Stay abreast of new laws, legal decisions and legislative actions that affect the Port Authority and advise senior staff of their implications
Minimum Qualifications
 
  • Law degree from a top tier or highly regarded law school
  • Member of the Bar in good standing in New York and New Jersey
  • At least 10 years of litigation experience, including significant courtroom advocacy and trials, gained through a combination of law firm and in-house or government roles of increasing visibility and responsibility.
  • Detail-oriented with strong litigation, analytical, and drafting skills, accompanied by outstanding communication skills
  • Proven track record to perform effectively under pressure and to reconcile conflicting priorities toward resolution
  • Exercise sound judgment, with savvy approach to recognition of intersection of public, business, and political components of work
  • Ability to think strategically and to act decisively regarding legal challenges facing the agency with the ability to balance and manage risk within time constraints
  • Ability to take ownership of and responsibility for managing legal work on large, complex projects with aggressive completion deadlines
  • Operate in a constantly evolving complex legal environment, while maintaining the highest ethical standards and integrity
  • Ability to train and mentor attorneys with different skill levels
  • Creative problem-solver with high integrity and ethics; able to find pragmatic legal solutions to business issue
  • Emphasis on professional and self-development
  • Engagement among colleagues and business teams in a collegial and business-friendly manner
Selection Process
The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.
Compensation & Benefits
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.
 
Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.