What are the responsibilities and job description for the Section Chief, Law Enforcement Practice Group position at New York State Office of the Attorney General?
State Counsel Division
Litigation Bureau – New York City
Section Chief – Law Enforcement Practice Group
Reference No. LIT_NYC_SC/LEPG_3766
Application Deadline is February 21, 2025
The Office of the New York State Attorney General’s (OAG) Litigation Bureau in New York City is seeking is seeking a
motivated and experienced litigator and manager to serve as a Section Chief in its Law Enforcement Practice Group
(LEPG). The Section Chief will report to the Deputy Bureau Chief of LEPG.
The Litigation Bureau defends the state of New York and its agencies and officials in federal and state courts. The
bureau’s cases are often high profile, frequently present complex questions of constitutional law and statutory
interpretation, and generally have significant policy and financial implications for the state. The bureau, one of the
largest within OAG, offers a diverse and stimulating practice with attorneys handling all phases of litigation from
inception through trial.
Attorneys assigned to LEPG primarily defend the state’s public safety agencies—including the Department of
Corrections and Community Supervision, State Police, Division of Criminal Justice Services, Division of Homeland
Security and Emergency Services, and Division of Military and Naval Affairs—in federal and state court actions
involving constitutional and civil rights, as well as employment issues. The LEPG also handles a number of class
actions and complex litigations concerning challenges to important governmental programs and policies in the
corrections and criminal justice fields. LEPG’s litigation addresses a wide range of issues, including first amendment
rights of freedom of religion and speech, second amendment right to bear arms, accommodation of mental and
physical disabilities, and constitutional challenges to state statutes, regulations, and policies. Attorneys handle all
phases of litigation and appear regularly in court. LEPG also has a very active docket of federal jury trials.
The attorneys assigned to LEPG work in small teams called “sections” that are led by a Section Chief. This structure
affords LEPG attorneys with significant access to and support from supervising attorneys, as well as opportunities
for collaboration with peer attorneys.
- Managing the section’s extensive federal and state court litigation docket;
- Supervising approximately up to ten (10) attorneys and support staff;
- Serving as lead attorney on, or otherwise closely overseeing, the section’s cases;
- Supervising or serving as lead attorney or second seat in hearings and trials;
- Reviewing and assigning incoming litigation matters, including emergency applications for judicial relief;
- Drafting and/or editing pleadings, briefs, and other motion papers;
- Evaluating and making recommendations on proposed settlements and representation issues; and
- Regularly providing advice, training, and support to the section’s attorneys and support staff.
Qualifications:
- At least eight (8) years of civil litigation experience in federal and New York state courts, including some trial
- Excellent legal analysis, legal writing and editing, and oral advocacy skills;
- Strong organizational, interpersonal communication, problem solving, and teamwork skills;
- Comfort with and proficiency using technology to complete legal work, including knowledge of and experience
- Prior experience supervising and/or mentoring attorneys and support staff is preferred.
Applicants must reside in (or intend to soon become a resident of) New York state and be admitted to practice law in
New York state for at least three (3) years. Prior admission, or eligibility for admission, to the United States District
Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York is also required for this position. In addition, the Public
Officers Law requires that OAG attorneys be citizens of the United States. A two (2) year commitment upon being
hired is a condition of employment.
The salary range for this position is $156,032 - $178,569 $3,400 in location pay. The final salary will be set after a
complete evaluation of the selected candidate’s qualifications. As an employee of OAG, you will join a team of
dedicated individuals who work to serve the people of our state through a wide variety of occupations. We offer a
comprehensive New York state benefits package, including paid leave, health, dental, vision, and retirement
benefits, and family-friendly policies. Additionally, OAG offers a robust Workplace Flexibilities Program with
multiple options for employees, including telecommuting (up to two days per week) and alternative work
schedules.
Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
The OAG is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to workplace diversity.
How to Apply
recruitment@ag.ny.gov. Applicants must indicate both the position title and reference number (e.g., “Section Chief,
LIT_NYC_SC/LEPG_3766”) in the email subject line.
To ensure consideration, applications must be received by close of business on February 21, 2025.
Applicants must be prepared to submit a complete application consisting of the following:
- Cover Letter
- You may address your letter to the Legal Recruitment Unit.
- Indicate the position title and reference number (e.g., Section Chief, LIT_NYC_SC/LEPG_3766).
- Indicate why you are interested in this position and what makes you a strong candidate. You may
wish to include information about what life experiences you will bring to the position that will
enhance OAG’s ability to better serve the diverse population of this state.
- Resume
- Writing Samples
- Please provide at least two writing samples (trial court memoranda of law are preferred) that you
- Please upload these as one document in the field that is provided.
- List of three (3) references
Only submit professional references, supervisory references are preferred.
For each reference, indicate the nature and duration of your relationship.
Include contact information and email addresses for each reference.
Please note that your references will not be contacted until after you interview for the position.
If you have questions regarding a position with OAG, the application process, or need assistance with submitting your application, please
contact Legal Recruitment via email at recruitment@ag.ny.gov or phone at 212-416-8080.
Salary : $156,032 - $178,569