This Senior Counsel directs division members assigned to the Collections Unit to provide professional legal work in a wide variety of cases with emphasis on collections work; manages outside law firms on every aspect of the collection process; assesses staff workload and coordinates incoming cases; supervises and counsels attorneys engaged in the practice of law; recommends litigation and negotiation strategies to supervisors; prepares and reviews legal documents for accuracy, completeness and compliance with the law; represents the City in legal matters; prepares productivity reports of division work activities and the status of pending matters; develops work standards and evaluates job performance of attorneys; participates in the planning and preparation of the division's annual budget; communicates with aldermen and City departments; creates policies and procedures to address the needs of City departments served by the division, including Revenue, Finance and Water Management; and undertakes other duties as directed by the chief and deputy of the division.

Qualifications:

Graduation from an ABA accredited law school and admission to the Illinois Bar (or another state bar having reciprocity with Illinois), on or before May 2004, a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible legal experience and state or federal court litigation experience. 

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

Knowledge of the principles and practice of civil law and knowledge of supervisory and management theory and practice.  Ability to supervise attorneys and staff and oversee projects, including skill in analysis, evaluation, decision-making, delegation, and follow-up.  Ability to develop and implement standards, policies and procedures for City departments and agencies.  Ability to manage litigation and create and implement case management procedures.  Strong analytical reasoning, negotiation, legal research, and oral and written communication skills.  Skill in the application of legal principles and concepts to specialized areas of law

NOTE:

To apply for this position, you must submit an on-line application on the City of Chicago's webpage at www.chicago.gov/careers.