Deputy Corporation Counsel

Distinguishing Features of the Class

A Deputy Corporation Counsel serves under the direction of the Corporation Counsel and assists in the management and execution of the City’s legal affairs. The Deputy Corporation Counsel may perform the full powers and duties of the Corporation Counsel in the absence or disability of the Corporation Counsel and/or Senior Deputy/Special Corporation Counsel. The position involves providing legal advice, representing the City in court and administrative proceedings, and assisting in the preparation and review of contracts, ordinances, and other legal instruments.

Work is performed under general supervision of the Corporation Counsel, with latitude to exercise independent judgment in handling assigned matters. The Deputy Corporation Counsel may also be assigned specialized legal, administrative, or supervisory responsibilities as determined by the Corporation Counsel.

Typical Work Activities

• Assist the Corporation Counsel in prosecuting and defending legal actions involving the City, its departments, boards, and agencies.

• Review, draft, and approve contracts, leases, ordinances, resolutions, and other legal instruments on behalf of the City.

• Provide legal counsel to City officials, departments, commissions, and boards on their powers, duties, and liabilities.

• Represent the City in legal proceedings, administrative hearings, and arbitration matters.

• Coordinate with the Senior Deputy/Special Corporation Counsel and other deputies on specialized legal matters.

• Monitor and investigate municipal agencies and authorities as directed, providing reports and recommendations to the Mayor and Corporation Counsel.

• Administer assigned bureaus or programs, such as the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication, when applicable.

• Supervise and provide guidance to subordinate staff, including legal and clerical personnel, as assigned.

• Perform any other legal, administrative, or supervisory duties assigned by the Corporation Counsel.

Full Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Personal Characteristics

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

• Licensed to practice law as an attorney and counselor at law in the State of New York.

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience practicing law.

• Strong knowledge of municipal law, administrative law, contract law, and civil litigation.

• Ability to provide clear and effective legal advice to public officials and staff.

• Skill in preparing, reviewing, and interpreting legal documents.

• Ability to represent the City effectively in court, administrative proceedings, and negotiations.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to supervise, mentor, and guide subordinate staff.

• Professional integrity, tact, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidential information.

• Effective oral and written communication skills.

• Physical and mental capacity to perform the duties of the position.

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

• Admission to the New York State Bar.

• At least five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney, preferably with municipal or public-sector experience.

• Supervisory or administrative experience is highly desirable.

Additional Notes

• The Deputy Corporation Counsel may act as Corporation Counsel in the event of the Corporation Counsel’s death, absence, or vacancy.

• The Senior Deputy/Special Corporation Counsel may be assigned specific oversight responsibilities, such as monitoring municipal agencies, which the Deputy Corporation Counsel may support.

• Assignments may vary based on departmental needs and the discretion of the Corporation Counsel.

SALARY:

$ 136,990