Under the general direction of the General Counsel, performs complex legal work for the University administration in areas of legal specialization, and represents or oversees the representation of the University in legal proceedings. Analyzes legal and regulatory issues in areas of specialization and develops and/or reviews institutional policies. Oversees and coordinates outside counsel and professional staff.
Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities
Supervises, trains, allocates work, and manages the performance of legal support staff; coordinates the activities of and consults with outside attorneys as appropriate.
Performs the duties of the General Counsel as and when required; represents the Office of the General Counsel at meetings of the Board or other bodies, as assigned.
Independently anticipates and identifies legal issues of concern to senior University administration, and develops appropriate legal strategies and solutions, often in situations of high risk to the University, with limited time for assessing alternatives.
Designs, develops, manages implementation, and oversees administration of policies and procedures, regulations, training manuals, and other University documents within legal specialty areas.
Monitors and analyzes complex current, proposed, or pending laws, regulations, and other internal or external developments affecting the University in areas of legal specialty; prepares summary analyses and comments, and prepares formal opinions of counsel, as needed.
Identifies potential risks and opportunities, and prepares communications to senior administrators; recommends, negotiates, and implements administrative/management responses, and advises administration regarding promotion of specific regulatory compliance strategies related to University programs.
Reviews, drafts, and approves complex contracts involving great risk or significance to the University, to include leases, licenses, purchases, sales, insurance, employment, and other relevant legal issues; monitors, oversees, and trains legal staff and other University staff in contract review procedure.
Represents senior administrators, executives, and managers in administrative hearings; represents or oversees the representation of the University and its officials in litigation.
Negotiates settlements involving complex legal issues or transactions on behalf of the University; provides leadership in structuring and negotiating partnerships and other complex relationships with governmental, corporate, and non-profit external entities.
Prepares and delivers, and/or oversees the preparation and delivery of training and training materials in area of legal specialty.
Enhances professional growth and development through participation in seminars and workshops; maintains professional affiliations to keep abreast of developments and trends in higher education law.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Loyola Marymount University Expectations
Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.
Requisite Qualifications
A J.D., and a member in good standing of the California State Bar or eligible to become a member within one year and/or registered under California's MJP licensure program.
Six years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
In-house counsel for an academic institution, relevant practice experience in a law firm, or corporation or other entity.
Experience in one or more of the following legal specialties: litigation; mediation and arbitration, labor and employment law; NLRB; student affairs; CLERY; FERPA; Title IX; Title VI; athletics; First Amendment”free speech, academic freedom and religious organizations; contracts; real estate and land use; landlord tenant; premises liability; administrative law and federal and state agency work, including DOE, OCR, EEOC and CRD; accreditation and Board governance.
Advanced verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
Ability to provide competent legal advice and counsel to senior university officials on a wide range of legal and policy issues.
Knowledge of human resources concepts, practices, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of the range of applicable laws and regulations which impact on all facets of university policy and operations.
Ability to analyze and interpret legal issues and develop and implement appropriately responsive strategies and solutions.
Knowledge of the judicial system and procedures.
Knowledge of organizational structure, workflow, and institutional operating procedures.
Ability to represent University officials in litigation or administrative proceedings.
Ability to draft legal documents, such as pleadings, legal responses, affidavits, position statements and briefs.
Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
Knowledge of the principles and procedures of legal research.
Knowledge and understanding of institutional policies and procedures and the regulatory environment within which they operate.
Negotiating skills.
Knowledge of contract law.
Knowledge of legal documentation procedures and requirements.
Ability to assess training and in-service needs in area of specialty, and to provide consultation and arrange/facilitate training and seminars.
Ability to supervise and coordinate the work of legal professionals, paraprofessionals, and consultants.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.
#HERC# #HEJ#
Staff Regular
Salary range
$143,100.00 - $200,300.00 Salary commensurate with education and experience.
Loyola Marymount University, a Carnegie classified R2 institution in the mainstream of American Catholic higher education, seeks outstanding applicants who value its mission and share its commitment to inclusive excellence, the education of the whole person, and the building of a just society. LMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing an environment free from discrimination and harassment as defined by federal, state and local law. We invite all persons in the full diversity of their being, life experience, and beliefs to apply. (Visit www.lmu.edu for more information.)
