General Counsel
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The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
General Function:
As the chief legal officer, oversees and manages the provision of all legal services to the institution to ensure maximum protection of its legal rights and to maintain its operations within the limits prescribed by law. Assists officers of the institution and other upper management in carrying out the mission of the institution. Previous experience in Higher Education strongly preferred.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities:
Provides legal counsel and guidance to the officers of the institution and other upper management on a variety of legal and policy matters relevant to the University, including, but not limited to, those relating to students, faculty and staff.
Anticipates and identifies legal issues and counsels officers of the institution and other upper management in order to develop legal strategies and solutions.
Reviews, researches, interprets, and prepares both written and oral opinions on a wide variety of legal issues.
Reviews and counsels officers of the institution and other upper management on policies and procedures, regulations, bylaws, and other legal documents.
Reviews contracts, leases, and other legal documents; researches legal issues and recommends revisions as necessary. Drafts simple contracts where appropriate.
Represents or oversees the representation of the institution and upper management in judicial and administrative proceedings.
Develops and manages annual office budget.
Selects and retains outside counsel to obtain legal opinions or to handle claims and litigation.
Supervises legal staff and outside counsel; consults on difficult or sensitive issues.
At the University’s cost, maintains professional growth and development through seminars, workshops, and professional affiliation to keep abreast of latest developments in college and university law and in other related areas.
Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Ability to develop and implement legal strategies and solutions.
Ability to analyze and interpret issues and to prepare legal opinions.
Ability to communicate and interact with University officials at all levels.
Ability to supervise and train staff, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
Ability to research and interpret applicable laws.
Employee development and performance management skills.
Ability to provide competent legal advice and counsel to senior officials on a wide range of legal/policy issues.
Ability to prepare and manage departmental budget.
Knowledge of the judicial system and procedures.
Knowledge of institutional policies and procedures and general governance matters.
Negotiating skills.
Knowledge of current and developing legal issues and trends in educational law and related areas.
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