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Job Description

The NYC Department of Buildings is responsible for ensuring the safe and lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code and Zoning Resolution. We facilitate compliant development with integrity, efficiency, and professionalism. We are committed to becoming a premier municipal building organization, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all New Yorkers and making our city safer. We are committed to improving our performance and developing procedures that are streamlined, understandable and transparent.

The Borough Enforcement Unit (BEU) is a legal code enforcement unit that prepares all criminal court cases and access warrant applications for the New York City Department of Buildings. BEU also liaises with the New York City Law Department on civil litigation and provides legal guidance to Agency personnel.

Under supervision, with wide latitude for independent decision-making, the Enforcement Attorney will be assigned to at least one Borough office and work on proactive enforcement cases and projects with Borough staff, as well as other units in the Enforcement bureau or Department. Work includes performing agency legal duties which include but are not limited to:
- Performing all areas of case management, including initial and continuing research, designing an appropriate legal strategy, developing and overseeing a case tracking system, preparing and prosecuting cases or supporting hearings at the Environmental Control Board (ECB), Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH), Criminal Court, Supreme Court, or any other legal forum.
- Training and assist with supervision of attorneys, paralegals, and other support staff as assigned.
- Working with various Department staff to identify problem areas appropriate for enhanced enforcement, special cases, and programs.
- Working with Department staff to promote more effective enforcement and compliance. May include reviewing procedures, developing new standard operating procedures, performing statistical assessments, improving coordination and communication among staff, and performing enforcement-related training.
- Providing legal support to the Borough Commissioners and department personnel regarding code interpretation, zoning, and other areas.
- Working directly with other City Agencies on cases and projects.
- Rendering legal interpretations and providing legal advice, as appropriate, in consultation with supervisors and General Counsel’s office.
- Conducting or overseeing investigations and research, including in the field.
- Assisting in generating and processing administrative access warrants.
- Preparing reports and related analysis on cases and/or programs.
- Supporting collection of penalties and fines assessed at ECB/OATH hearings or Court proceedings with other City agencies.
- Traveling occasionally between various Department offices or other locations.
- Proposing new ideas for overall enforcement initiatives and programs.
- Managing special projects and assignments.
- Perform any other duties as assigned by a supervisor.

REMOTE WORK
This position may be eligible for remote work up to 2 days per week, pursuant to the Remote Work Pilot Program.

AGENCY ATTORNEY - 30087

Qualifications

1. Admission to the New York State Bar; and either "2" or "3" below.
2. One year of satisfactory United States legal experience subsequent to admission to any state bar; or
3. Six months of satisfactory service as an Agency Attorney Interne (30086).
Incumbents must remain Members of the New York State Bar in good standing for the duration of this employment.
In addition to meeting the minimum Qualification Requirements:
To be assigned to Assignment Level (AL) II, candidates must have one year of experience at Assignment Level I or two years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment. To be assigned to AL III candidates must have two years of experience in Assignment Levels I and/or II or three years of comparable legal experience subsequent to admission to the bar, in the areas of law related to the assignment.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

Average salary estimate

$82500 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$70000K
$95000K

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What You Should Know About Borough Enforcement Attorney, City of New York

If you're passionate about law and committed to making a difference, the role of Borough Enforcement Attorney at the NYC Department of Buildings could be the perfect fit for you. Based in the bustling New York City, this position is centered around the enforcement of the NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code, and Zoning Resolution. You'll be an integral part of the Borough Enforcement Unit (BEU), tackling proactive enforcement cases and ensuring the safety and legality of building uses across the five boroughs. You'll handle all aspects of case management from developing legal strategies to overseeing a case tracking system and preparing for hearings at various levels, including the Environmental Control Board and Criminal Court. In this role, collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with Borough staff and other city agencies to enhance compliance and address problem areas. Your responsibilities will also include training and supervising junior attorneys and paralegals, as well as providing legal advice on zoning and code interpretation. With the potential to work remotely up to two days a week under the Remote Work Pilot Program, this position offers the flexibility to balance your professional and personal life while contributing to a safer New York City. If you're ready to use your legal expertise to effect positive change, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Borough Enforcement Attorney Role at City of New York
What are the primary responsibilities of a Borough Enforcement Attorney at the NYC Department of Buildings?

As a Borough Enforcement Attorney at the NYC Department of Buildings, you'll be responsible for managing all aspects of legal cases, including conducting research, developing legal strategies, and overseeing case tracking. You will also prepare and prosecute cases at hearings and collaborate with various department staff to enhance compliance and address enforcement challenges.

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What qualifications do I need to become a Borough Enforcement Attorney for NYC?

To qualify as a Borough Enforcement Attorney for NYC, you must be admitted to the New York State Bar and have either one year of relevant legal experience or six months as an Agency Attorney Intern. Additional experience in law related to this role may be required for advancement within the agency levels.

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Is remote work an option for the Borough Enforcement Attorney position at the NYC Department of Buildings?

Yes, the Borough Enforcement Attorney position at the NYC Department of Buildings may allow for remote work up to two days a week, in accordance with the Remote Work Pilot Program, providing flexibility while maintaining a commitment to enforcing building codes effectively.

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How does the role of a Borough Enforcement Attorney contribute to public safety in NYC?

The role of a Borough Enforcement Attorney is crucial for public safety in NYC, as it involves proactive legal enforcement of construction and zoning laws. By ensuring compliance among building owners and conducting legal actions against non-compliance, the attorney helps to maintain safe living and working environments in the city.

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What skills are important for a successful Borough Enforcement Attorney at the NYC Department of Buildings?

Successful Borough Enforcement Attorneys at the NYC Department of Buildings should possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a solid understanding of legal principles regarding construction codes and zoning laws. Leadership and teamwork skills are also vital, as attorneys often train and guide other legal staff.

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Common Interview Questions for Borough Enforcement Attorney
Can you describe your experience with case management in a legal setting?

In addressing your experience with case management, focus on specific cases or projects you've managed. Highlight your ability to strategize, implement tracking systems, and oversee legal processes while ensuring compliance with relevant laws.

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What strategies do you use to stay updated on changes in construction and zoning laws?

To effectively answer this, explain your methods for staying informed, such as subscribing to legal newsletters, attending workshops, and collaborating with colleagues. Discuss how you apply this knowledge to your work to maintain compliance and support your advocacy efforts.

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How do you handle conflicts or challenges when working with other city agencies?

Describe your approach to handling conflicts, emphasizing communication and negotiation skills. Provide an example of a past experience where you successfully resolved a disagreement or facilitated collaboration between agencies.

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How do you prioritize your workload when managing multiple cases?

In your response, outline your approach to prioritization, such as using time management tools, assessing case urgency, and staying organized. Highlight your ability to remain adaptable and flexible as new cases arise.

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Can you give an example of a successful training or supervision experience you've had?

Discuss a specific instance when you trained or supervised legal professionals, explaining the objectives of the training, the methods employed, and the positive outcomes resulting from your guidance.

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What steps do you take to ensure compliance with legal codes during your work?

Share your systematic approach to compliance, such as thorough research, regular training sessions for staff, and proactive monitoring of legal changes. Emphasize the importance of these steps in protecting public safety and legal integrity.

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Describe a challenging case you've worked on and how you overcame the obstacles faced.

Provide a detailed account of a specific challenging case, outlining the obstacles, your analytical approach, and the strategies you employed to achieve a successful outcome. This showcases your problem-solving skills.

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What role does collaboration play in your approach to legal enforcement?

Discuss the importance of collaboration, emphasizing how engaging with colleagues, stakeholders, and other agencies leads to more effective outcomes in enforcement efforts and contributes to overall public safety.

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How do you ensure transparency and understanding in legal procedures among stakeholders?

Explain your strategies for promoting transparency, such as clear communication, creating accessible resources, and encouraging feedback. This approach fosters trust and ensures stakeholders have a clear understanding of legal processes.

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What motivates you to work in the area of legal enforcement within city government?

Share your passion for the legal profession and public service. Discuss how your desire to contribute positively through enforcement work drives your commitment to uphold laws and enhance community well-being.

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Our Mission To work to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality-of-life of New York City’s diverse older adults, and for the support of their caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. Strategic Goals To foster independence...

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
March 19, 2025

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