Manager of Contested Matters

Location: Farmington Hills, Michigan (onsite)

Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Legal Manager (non-attorney) to lead our legal department with a focus on contested matters and litigation strategy. This role is responsible for overseeing end-to-end case management, supervising legal staff, and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. This role reports directly to our Attorney Partner.

The Legal Manager plays a critical role in minimizing legal risk, maximizing recovery efforts, and safeguarding the organization’s interests. This position also serves as a key advisor to leadership, supports operational decision-making, and fosters strong, trusted client relationships through clear communication and strategic legal guidance.

Key Responsibilities & Qualifications:
The Legal Manager will manage and direct all aspects of contested matters while providing strategic leadership and collaboration across the organization, including:

Leadership & Oversight

• Manage and direct the legal department in handling all contested matters
• Supervise, mentor, and develop legal staff, fostering collaboration, accountability, and professional growth

Litigation Strategy & Case Management

• Design and implement effective litigation strategies to achieve favorable outcomes
• Oversee preparation, filing, and management of pleadings, motions, and supporting documentation
• Provide timely legal guidance to leadership and operations teams regarding case status and strategy

Client Communication & Advisory

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on contested matters
• Deliver clear status updates, legal recommendations, and settlement options
• Draft, review, and negotiate legal documents, contracts, and settlement agreements

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with operations, compliance, and client service teams to align legal strategies with organizational goals
• Proactively identify and address legal risks impacting internal stakeholders

Compliance & Risk Management

• Monitor changes in legislation and legal precedents and advise leadership on potential impacts
• Update and implement internal policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure compliance
• Identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks across contested matters and recovery efforts

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum of 5+ years of litigation experience (creditor’s rights/collections experience a plus)
• Prior leadership or management experience overseeing legal teams preferred
• Strong knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, negotiation, and communication skills