What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Counsel position at THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF MICHIGAN?
Summary:
The General Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor to the Third Judicial Circuit, providing strategic legal counsel to the Chief Judge, Executive Circuit Court Administrator, and Judges on all administrative and court-related matters. This role oversees the Office of the General Counsel, managing legal operations, staff, and external counsel. The General Counsel ensures legal compliance, mitigates risk, and supports the Court's mission through expert legal guidance, policy development, and representation. The General Counsel reports to the Chief Judge.
Essential Functions:
- Legal Advisory & Risk Management: Provide expert legal advice on diverse issues, policies and regulations including, but not limited to, contracts, employment law, ethics, legislation, and risk management.
- Policy & Compliance: Develop, review, and update Court policies, administrative orders, and procedures to ensure legal compliance. Monitor legislation and provide analysis of statutory changes.
- Legal Representation & Litigation: Represent the Court in litigation, show cause proceedings, and before administrative agencies. Manage external counsel and oversee legal services.
- Legal Research & Analysis: Conduct in-depth legal research, analyze complex legal issues, and provide clear, concise legal opinions and memoranda.
- Staff Management: Lead and manage the Office of the General Counsel, including hiring, training, performance management, and budget oversight.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Liaise with state and local agencies, including the State Court Administrative Office and Wayne County.
- Contract Management: Negotiate, draft, and review contracts and agreements.
- Legislative Advocacy: Recommend and draft legislation, court rules, and administrative orders.
- Training: Provides training on legal matters as appropriate and/or requested.
- Continuing Legal Education: Participates in continuing court management training and professional education.
Qualifications, Licenses and Certifications:
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Active member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Eligible to practice in other federal courts as necessary.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive legal experience, with a strong background in court, judicial, or government representation.
- Minimum of 5 years of management experience preferred.
- Proficiency in legal research platforms (Westlaw/Lexis) and MS Office Suite.
- Valid Michigan Driver's license and vehicle access.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Expert knowledge of laws and regulations related to court administration.
- Exceptional legal research, analytical, and writing skills.
- Strong leadership, communication, collaboration and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Proven ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to work with a diverse population.
Additional Requirements:
- Successful completion of criminal and IV-D background check and fingerprinting.
- Applicants must be eligible for employment authorization in the U.S.
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to lift 25 lbs.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the title. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description. Specific job duties vary from position to position.
Grant funded positions are contingent on availability of grant funding and may be terminated should funding substantially reduce or cease. The affected employee may be considered as a candidate for other vacant positions within the Court for which they are qualified.
