Assistant Corporation Counsel – General Litigation

As an Assistant Corporation Counsel in the General Litigation Division of the New York City Law Department, your primary responsibilities include defending the City against federal court litigation, handling complex cases that challenge City policies, managing your own caseload, participating in court conferences, conducting oral arguments, preparing legal documents, and representing the City in hearings. You'll be integral in advocating for City programs in areas such as education and healthcare while ensuring top-notch legal representation.

To qualify as an Assistant Corporation Counsel in the New York City Law Department, applicants must be graduates of an ABA-approved law school and admitted and in good standing with the New York State bar. Additionally, candidates should either be admitted to practice in the SDNY and EDNY or be eligible for immediate admission. It's also essential to have substantial litigation experience, strong organizational and legal writing skills, alongside excellent judgment and interpersonal abilities.

Yes, Assistant Corporation Counsel in the General Litigation Division have the opportunity to work remotely after completing their orientation. The New York City Law Department offers a pilot program that allows attorneys to select two designated work-from-home days per week, while still ensuring that essential in-person responsibilities are met. This approach helps promote a healthy work-life balance while fulfilling the department's needs.

The work environment for an Assistant Corporation Counsel in the New York City Law Department is supportive and inclusive, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration. The department is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and creating a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Attorneys are encouraged to engage in public service and align with the department's core values of excellence, integrity, and respect, making it a fulfilling and dynamic place to work.

Successful Assistant Corporation Counsel in the New York City Law Department should possess exceptional litigation experience, strong organizational abilities, and advanced legal writing and analytical skills. Apart from legal expertise, excellent judgment and interpersonal skills are crucial, as the role involves working with various stakeholders. Additionally, a genuine commitment to public service and upholding the values of the Law Department is essential for making a meaningful impact.

When answering this question, emphasize your passion for public service and how your values align with the mission of the New York City Law Department. Highlight specific aspects of the General Litigation Division's work that resonate with you, such as advocating for critical City programs.

In your answer, discuss specific examples of complex litigation you have handled, outlining your role, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes. This demonstrates your ability to manage substantial cases relevant to the responsibilities of an Assistant Corporation Counsel.

To effectively respond to this question, provide an overview of your organizational methods and tools, such as case management software or prioritization techniques. Share a personal example of a time when you managed multiple cases and how your strategies led to successful outcomes.

When discussing your approach, emphasize clarity, structure, and persuasive argumentation. You can mention your process for researching relevant case law and statutes, as well as how you tailor your writing style to your audience, whether it be judges or opposing counsel.

In answering this question, share your preparation process, such as researching case precedents, practicing your arguments, and anticipating questions from the judge. Mention the importance of being adaptable during the argument and how you remain calm and collected.

Explain how you adhere to ethical standards and maintain transparent communication. Provide an example of a situation where you successfully navigated a conflict of interest while ensuring compliance with professional conduct codes.

Discuss current challenges such as funding constraints, diversity issues in representation, and balancing case loads with public expectations. Highlight your awareness of how these issues might impact the New York City Law Department and its mission.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain your role in a team project or case, focusing on collaboration and positive outcomes. Emphasize how teamwork aligns with the values of the New York City Law Department.

Share specific resources you rely on, such as legal journals, industry publications, or networking with colleagues. Discuss the importance of continuous learning and how it enhances your effectiveness as an Assistant Corporation Counsel.

Discuss traits like strong analytical skills, effective communication, ethical judgment, and a commitment to public service. Relate these traits to your personal experiences and how they align with the mission of the New York City Law Department.