Job Details
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY
The Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA) seeks one or more Staff Attorneys to manage litigation in connection with the DLBA s Quiet Title, Nuisance Abatement and/or Unauthorized Occupancy programs. Each position will work primarily in one of these areas depending on interest and qualifications but may also work at times in others. A successful applicant will be responsible for all aspects of civil litigation, including drafting pleadings, reviewing records, managing files, attending hearings, representing the organization s interest in collaborative settings, negotiating agreements, and managing a personal case load.
The DLBA encourages applications from candidates with many or all of the desired subject matter qualifications set forth below. A successful applicant s salary will be commensurate with their qualifications and years of relevant practice.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (depending on applicant experience may include many or all of the following)
Draft pleadings, review records, attend hearings, devise litigation strategy and manage files in various stages of DLBA s Quiet Title, Nuisance Abatement, and/or Unauthorized Occupancy litigation matters, as well as general litigation
Assist in creating program policies and vendor management
Manage full case load of property cases and be responsible for timely movement and resolution
Investigate reports of suspected unauthorized occupancy in DLBA-owned properties
Collaborate with various DLBA departments and external third-party agencies, including the City of Detroit and the Detroit Police Department
Respond to questions, requests for information, and, when appropriate, comments regarding the law from other DLBA staff, and the general public
Provide direct supervision to support staff, as applicable
Confer with legal team on various additional matters including, but not limited to, contracts, property sales, and Freedom of Information Act Requests
Perform legal and general research
Perform additional duties as directed by Legal Department management
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS (Subject Matter)
Familiarity with the Wayne County Treasurer tax foreclosure process
Familiarity with Michigan real estate, municipal, and landlord-tenant law
Experience dealing with tax foreclosed properties
Understanding of real property chain of title and ability to recognize issues that arise therein
Experience in general civil litigation
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)
Member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan
Knowledge of Michigan district and circuit court practice, knowledge of Federal court practice also preferred, but not required
Familiarity with and ability to prepare litigation documents
Excellent communication skills, particularly in legal speaking and writing
Excellent organizational and time management skills including the ability to multi-task
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and good judgment to identify potential solutions
Strong negotiation skills
Understanding of and ability to apply attorney ethics rules
Ability to work well in a fast-paced and demanding environment
Ability to work effectively with others as part of a team
Ability to conduct research that is relevant, accurate, and thorough
Experience using and proficiency with MS Office
Mission-driven individual with high personal integrity and a strong sense of public service to the residents of the City of Detroit
Detroit residency preferred
EDUCATION
Juris Doctorate from an American Bar Association-accredited law school
*Please Submit a cover letter indicating highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications as well as your salary expectations.
BENEFITS
Working with the DLBA, you will be a vital part of the fight against the blight epidemic facing Detroit. Compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to a candidate's education, training, experience, expected quality and quantity of work, external market and internal value analysis including seniority and merit systems, as well as internal pay alignment. Annual salary is just one component of the Detroit Land Bank's total compensation package. Other rewards include a variety of benefits to employees, including health, dental and vision insurance coverage, life and disability insurance within your first 60 days, additionally included are a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off.
**AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER**