Assistant General Counsel - Discovery and Records

A law firm is seeking an Assistant General Counsel - Discovery and Records to collaborate closely with the Office of the General Counsel. This role focuses on managing client file transfers and discovery related to firm matters, including responding to subpoenas, discovery requests, and file transfer requests. The Assistant General Counsel will be responsible for implementing preservation holds, guiding internal teams on discovery processes, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Discovery Management:
  • Handle discovery processes for internal firm matters, including advising on internal discovery and compliance.
  • Prepare and manage responses to discovery requests and subpoenas.
  • Assist with internal investigations related to firm matters.
  • Meet with requesting parties to negotiate the scope of discovery responses.
• Preservation and Legal Holds:
  • Implement and manage preservation holds in coordination with the Office of the General Counsel and Information Governance department.
  • Oversee the drafting, review, and revision of preservation hold memos.
• Collaboration and Coordination:
  • Work with the Information Governance department to manage data preservation, collection, and review protocols.
  • Collaborate with the Litigation/eDiscovery department on project management, vendor costs, and review processes.
  • Coordinate with outside counsel as needed on discovery processes and motion practice.
• Policy and Procedure Development:
  • Update and refine firm policies and procedures related to client file transfers and discovery.
  • Work with firm management and administrative departments to establish best practices for discovery.
• Guidance and Oversight:
  • Provide guidance to and oversee file review attorneys to ensure accurate review and transfer of client files.
  • Support the Office of the General Counsel in aligning internal stakeholders with legal processes.
• Legal Research and Strategic Guidance:
  • Stay updated on developments in discovery law, risk management, and related regulations.
  • Provide strategic legal guidance on litigation, pre-litigation, and risk management matters.
  • Identify litigation risks and formulate effective responses.
• Additional Duties:
  • Assist with discovery motion practice, including drafting briefs.
  • Support other lawyers in the Office of the General Counsel as requested.
  • Perform other duties as assigned or required.

Job Requirements:

• Education and Certification:
  • Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
  • Active member in good standing of the jurisdiction's Bar.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience managing discovery, including eDiscovery projects, for complex litigation matters.
  • Experience with relational document review databases such as Relativity.
  • Preferred experience with law firm risk management and project management.
• Skills and Competencies:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, iManage, and other firm applications.
  • Strong knowledge of discovery concepts, procedural rules, and litigation practices.
  • General understanding of data privacy regulations and principles.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to present information clearly.
  • Strong legal research, analysis, and comprehensive writing skills.
  • High emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple responsibilities under pressure and provide business-driven advice.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a strategic and practical approach.
  • Commitment to confidentiality, ethics, and personal integrity.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and travel as required.
  • Experience with legal ethics and privilege issues preferred.
  • Team-oriented with excellent counseling, organizational, and analytical skills.

Benefits Offered:

• Full range of elective benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health savings account (with applicable medical plan).
• Flexible spending accounts (healthcare and dependent care).
• Life insurance, AD&D, long-term care coverage.
• Backup care for children and adults, and other parental support benefits.
• Firm-paid life insurance, AD&D, LTD, and short-term medical benefits.
• 4 weeks of vacation, 2 weeks of sick leave, and 10 paid holidays annually.
• Pre-tax commuter benefits.

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.