Investigative Attorney

As an Investigative Attorney at the NYC Department of Buildings, you’ll be tasked with prosecuting cases related to building and construction law at the Office of Administrative Trials & Hearings. Your duties include conducting thorough interviews, preparing legal documents like petitions and motions, and staying in close contact with senior staff regarding case developments. You'll also engage in pre-hearing preparation and contribute to special projects that can influence existing policies, making your role both impactful and varied.

To apply for the Investigative Attorney position at the NYC Department of Buildings, you must be admitted to the New York State Bar. Additionally, candidates should have either one year of satisfactory legal experience following admission to any state bar or six months of experience as an Agency Attorney Intern. For higher levels, a combination of relevant experiences is necessary, including prior work as an Agency Attorney.

The NYC Department of Buildings is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees, including Investigative Attorneys. As an equal opportunity employer, the agency actively recruits a diverse workforce and maintains a workplace free from discrimination based on race, sex, religion, or any protected status. They believe in the value of diverse perspectives contributing to innovative solutions in municipal building practices.

Successful Investigative Attorneys at the NYC Department of Buildings must possess excellent legal writing skills, keen analytical abilities, and strong communication capabilities. Being detail-oriented helps in preparing accurate reports and documentation, while interpersonal skills are essential for conducting interviews and interacting with various stakeholders. Familiarity with municipal building codes and regulations is also crucial to excel in this position.

A typical day for an Investigative Attorney at the NYC Department of Buildings involves prosecuting cases, conducting interviews to gather evidence, preparing legal documentation, and advising senior staff on important case developments. You might also spend time on research related to upcoming hearings and participate in special projects aimed at enhancing agency policies. This role demands a blend of legal aptitude and a commitment to public service.

When answering this question, highlight specific experiences where you've successfully prosecuted cases. Discuss the legal strategies you implemented and how your decisions contributed to the outcomes. Showing your familiarity with procedural nuances helps to create a strong impression.

Demonstrating your understanding of the NYC Construction Codes is crucial. Discuss key aspects of the codes, including zoning regulations and safety standards, and provide examples of how they can affect building projects. Your awareness of these regulations shows your preparedness for the role.

Addressing this question involves sharing specific instances where you've successfully managed multiple tasks under pressure. Discuss organizational strategies you employ to prioritize tasks and maintain high-quality work, emphasizing your ability to stay calm in challenging situations.

In your response, focus on systematic approaches you've previously used for research. Mention any specific databases, legal resources, or interview techniques that have proven fruitful in gathering necessary evidence to support your cases.

Share a specific case that highlights your legal skills and advocacy efforts. Elaborate on the challenges faced, how you overcame them, and the positive outcomes that resulted from your work. This showcases your achievements effectively.

Elucidate your views on teamwork and communication. Provide examples of successful collaborations in previous roles, emphasizing your ability to foster a respectful and productive work atmosphere, essential in a legal team environment.

Discuss the importance of ethics in your legal practice, providing examples where ethical guidelines influenced your decision-making. Show that you prioritize integrity in your legal work, as this is vital in public service positions like those at the NYC Department of Buildings.

Explain the methods you use to keep abreast of legal changes, such as attending workshops, participating in professional networks, or regularly reviewing legal publications. Emphasizing proactive measures demonstrates your commitment to remaining informed and competent in your field.

Articulate your passion for public service and how the mission of the NYC Department of Buildings aligns with your career goals. Consider discussing your desire to make a positive impact on urban safety and compliance as motivating factors for applying.

Focus on the unique skills and experiences you bring to the table that would benefit the NYC Department of Buildings. Highlight both your legal expertise and your interpersonal skills to underline your ability to contribute to a cohesive and effective legal team.