Assistant General Counsel - Discovery and Records

A law firm is seeking an Assistant General Counsel - Discovery and Records to work closely with the Office of the General Counsel. The primary responsibility is to manage legal affairs related to client file transfers and discovery, with a focus on responding to subpoenas and discovery requests. This role requires strong collaboration skills to ensure accurate and timely results, particularly in managing internal firm discovery, implementing preservation holds, and overseeing compliance processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage discovery related to firm matters, including internal investigations and client file transfers.
• Respond to subpoenas, discovery requests, and file transfer requests with thorough legal review and analysis.
• Implement and oversee preservation holds in collaboration with the Information Governance department.
• Collaborate with internal teams (Office of the General Counsel, Litigation/eDiscovery department, Information Governance) to manage data preservation, collection, and review processes.
• Draft and review legal documents related to preservation holds, discovery responses, and subpoenas.
• Assist in the management of discovery processes, including coordinating with outside counsel as necessary.
• Oversee the review of firm records for use in discovery and file transfers, ensuring legal compliance.
• Participate in drafting discovery motions and assist in motion practice, including brief preparation.
• Develop and update policies, practices, and procedures regarding client file transfers, discovery, and compliance.
• Monitor developments in discovery law, risk management, and legal ethics, providing strategic advice to internal teams.
• Ensure alignment of legal processes and internal stakeholder actions with the firm’s policies.
• Identify and mitigate litigation risks, working closely with the Office of the General Counsel.
• Support strategic planning and project management related to risk management.
• Provide guidance and oversight to file review attorneys.
• Participate in firm-wide risk management initiatives.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions.
• Travel and work extended hours as required.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active member in good standing of a jurisdiction's bar association.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience managing discovery, including eDiscovery projects, for complex litigation matters.
• Strong litigation practice skills with comprehensive knowledge of discovery rules and processes.
• Experience with relational document review databases such as Relativity.
• Familiarity with legal ethics and privilege issues.
• General understanding of data privacy regulations and principles.
• Experience in law firm risk management and project management is preferred.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite, iManage, 3E, and other firm applications.

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present ideas and information clearly.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, informed by business objectives.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Strong sense of accountability and attention to detail.
• High level of emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships across various levels of the firm.
• A creative and practical approach to problem-solving with a focus on business needs.
• Team-oriented, with excellent counseling, organizational, and analytical abilities.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest level of confidentiality, ethics, and professional integrity.

Certifications:

• Admission to the bar in New York (or other relevant jurisdiction).

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and health savings account.
• Flexible spending accounts for dependent care and commuter benefits.
• Life insurance, AD&D, long-term care coverage, and backup care for children and adults.
• Firm-paid short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, and AD&D coverage.
• Paid time off: Four weeks of vacation, two weeks of sick leave, and 10 paid holidays annually.

Creative lawyering in a laid back environment is big draw for associates at this Amlaw firm. This California-based firm is highly regarded as one of the most innovative firms in the market. The firm is best known for its technology work and life sciences clients, and is generally recognized as the top legal provider for emerging companies. The California culture of the firm fosters a collaborative and social workplace, while the sophisticated training and meaningful attorney mentorship help develop associates into world class lawyers.