Litigation Counsel

Job Overview This position is responsible for providing leadership, oversight and legal counsel for a wide variety of matters, including, but not limited, to litigation civil rights, employment, labor, students' rights and tort law. The legal director will manage litigation matters assigned to external counsel and the office of the county attorney and will lead in the defense or initiation of legal action before examiners, ALJs, arbitrators, agencies and state and federal courts, and oversee responses to subpoena, public information and discovery requests. Duties Under the direction of the Chief Legal Officer, the director leads work in various practice areas; supervises assistant general counsel and supporting staff members; Provides oversight, guidance and supervision of assistant general counsel as well as other office staff. Assists in the development and implementation of the departmental strategic plan aligned with the school system's strategic plan, reviews and supports the division of legal services work plans. Serves as legal advisor; supports and provides updates and recommendations to chief legal counsel. Collaborates with stakeholders, supports the implementation of a positive work environment and has high expectations for achievement. Manages litigation or other legal projects assigned to outside counsel for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) counsel and providing consultation with such counsel; representing the Board of Education of Montgomery County in federal or state courts or in administrative hearings; participating in or handling litigation cases as required; conducting settlement negotiations; Drafts opinions and provides opinions and advice on a daily basis; and providing in-service training for staff, as requested. Proactively anticipates legal issues relevant to decision making, and identifies legal matters with significant policy or administrative implications. Supports and assists in the review of key initiatives by the Board and the school district, and offers advice on legal opportunities to promote equity and excellence in the district's work, as well as continued enhancements to promote organizational and operational excellence. Skills Thorough knowledge of legal principles and their application, and expertise in one or more of the following areas of legal practice: education law including student rights, special education, civil rights, development of policies and regulations, employment law, litigation. Demonstrated organizational skills and experience in assessing, interpreting, and resolving complex problems/situations. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, as well as excellent skills in legal research and in presenting, explaining, and defending policies and procedures. Thorough understanding of public school operations and knowledge of legal research and case law that may impact the school system. Excellent skills in managing litigation in state or federal courts or before administrative agencies; negotiating settlements which accommodate conflicting interests and viewpoints; and in presenting, explaining, and defending policies, procedures, and legal issues, both orally and in writing. Ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships with MCPS employees and managers at all levels, as well as external attorneys and law firms, parents, government leaders, and community stakeholders. Ability to interact with diverse constituencies and convey complicated information with tact and diplomacy. Ability to multi-task, prioritizes changing assignments, and organize busy work load, meet deadlines, and work well under pressure, while exercising excellent attention to detail. Possession of a juris doctorate degree from an accredited school of law. Minimum of eight (8) years of experience in the practice of law preferred, including recent progressively more responsible professional experience in educational and public litigation and administrative law, preferably in the public sector. Documented experience with management and supervisory responsibilities, preferably in a legal setting. Membership in or eligible for the Maryland State Bar. #J-18808-Ljbffr