Job Description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

This Staff Attorney is responsible for all aspects of civil litigation, including drafting legal pleadings, reviewing, and processing records requests, representing the organization’s interests in collaborative settings, representing the Land Bank in court, and managing a personal case load.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

NOTE:  The job duties listed are typical examples of the work performed by positions in this job classification.  Not all duties assigned to every position are included, nor is it expected that all positions will be assigned every duty.

·         Manage full case load and be responsible for timely movement and resolution

·         Prepare and file pleadings, argue motions, and conduct litigation generally, predominantly in the 36th District Court

·         Investigate reports of suspected occupancy in Detroit Land Bank Authority owned properties

·         Respond to third-party complaints and requests for information

·         Collaborate with various departments and external third-party agencies, including law enforcement

·         Confer with DLBA staff on various matters including, but not limited to, evictions, contracts, and Freedom of Information Act requests.

·         Provide direct supervision to paralegal, or support staff, as applicable

·         Perform additional duties as directed by the Lead Attorney – Inventory & Real Property Operations, and the Chief Counsel – Disposition & Governance

QUALIFICATIONS (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES)

·         Juris Doctorate from an American Bar Association-accredited law school

·         Member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan

·         Minimum of three years of related legal experience, including litigation experience

·         Knowledge of district court practice

·         Familiarity with and ability to prepare litigation documents

·         Knowledge of land banking, tax foreclosure, municipal, real estate, and landlord-tenant law

·         Experience with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act and Open Meetings Act, preferred

·         Excellent communication skills, particularly in public speaking and writing

·         Excellent organizational and time management skills as well as the ability to multi-task

·         Excellent analytical, and problem-solving skills, and good judgment to identify potential solutions

·         Strong negotiation skills

·         Understanding of and ability to apply attorney ethics rules

·         Ability to work well in a fast paced and demanding environment

·         Ability to work effectively with others as part of a team

·         Ability to conduct research that is relevant, accurate, and thorough

·         Experience using and proficiency with MS Office

·         Mission-driven individual with high personal integrity and a strong sense of public service to the residents of the City of Detroit

·         Detroit residency, preferred

EDUCATION

·         Juris Doctorate from an American Bar Association-accredited law school