Associate In-House Counsel

Position Purpose: Responsible for assisting the In-House Counsel in managing the legal function of the District, with emphasis on advising the District on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the practical application of state and federal special education laws and regulations. The Associate’s responsibilities include leading major projects and initiatives, researching legal matters, providing legal advice, drafting legal opinions and other documents, and performing related professional and administrative duties as required. The position works independently, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.

This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, knowledge, or abilities associated with this classification but is intended to accurately reflect the primary job elements.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Regularly attend board meetings, committee meetings, and department meetings as assigned.
• Work closely with the In-House Counsel to: ensure that the goals and objectives of the department are met; establish priorities; ensure accurate and consistent interpretation of relevant laws and the timely and accurate preparation of reports and opinions; evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of office operations and make related recommendations.
• Partner with senior management and departmental supervisors on complex issues to develop and implement solutions, resources, and compliance.
• Work collaboratively with other administrators throughout the District.
• Execute the responsibilities lawfully and in keeping with the highest ethical standards.
• Use personal judgment and initiative to develop effective and constructive solutions to challenges and obstacles.
• Perform legal research and render legal opinions on straightforward and complex legal issues.
• Evaluate potential litigation exposure.
• Assist in providing advice concerning new or revised Board/District policies and procedures.
• Attend internal and external hearings and administrative proceedings.
• Appear before state or federal court as assigned by In-House Counsel.
• Assist with administrative and supervisory responsibilities relating to litigation matters.
• Prepare and file legal briefs.
• Attend and assist in facilitating bargaining negotiations.
• Draft, review and negotiate contracts, agreements, memoranda of understanding, leases, and other legal documents.
• Gather information to support periodic and special reports documenting activities.
• Develop and maintain a library of legal opinions, research work products, and litigation documents.
• Remain current on legal developments affecting the District.
• Attend professional conferences, training, seminars, and workshops as necessary to maintain job knowledge and skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited school of law is required.
• Must be licensed to practice in Nebraska or have the ability to obtain admission.
• Two plus years of education law, public sector law, employment, and labor law, contracts, constitutional law, and special education law experience preferred.
• Excellent law school record plus three or more years of related legal experience.
• Ability to communicate legal information and advice clearly and concisely.
• Ability to write clearly and persuasively.
• Ability to determine alternative legal and administrative approaches to solving problems.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
• Ability to organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner.
• Ability to display a significant degree of professionalism and confidentiality.
• Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and other software typically used in legal practice (g., e-mail, internet, LexisNexis, etc.)
• Previous experience with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and application of state and federal special education laws and regulations is preferred.