Assistant Corporation Counsel, Tort Division

City of New York•New York, NY

7d•$87,737 - $188,235•Hybrid

About The Position

The New York City Law Department’s Tort Division represents the City, its agencies, and employees acting within the scope of their duties in tort claims brought in State court. The Division handles a high-volume caseload through investigation, defense, settlement when appropriate, and trial. Attorneys in the city-wide Borough Units conduct statutory hearings and depositions; prepare pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and document discovery; and appear at preliminary, compliance, settlement, and TAP conferences and oral argument on motions. Attorneys also participate in the trial rotation program and second-chair opportunities, preparing cases for trial and handling trial-related work. Following orientation, attorneys may choose between limited, irregular work-from-home days or a pilot program that permits remote work on two set days per week, subject to Division approval and staffing needs. In-person obligations take precedence over scheduled remote days, and the pilot is being tested across City agencies and is not yet permanent.

Requirements

At least one year of civil litigation experience after graduating from an ABA-accredited law school.
Admission to and good standing with the New York State Bar.
Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

Conduct statutory hearings and depositions.
Draft pleadings and affirmative and responsive motions.
Prepare discovery responses and manage document discovery.
Appear at preliminary, compliance, settlement, and TAP conferences.
Present oral argument on motions.
Participate in the Division’s trial rotation program and second-chair opportunities.
Investigate and prepare all aspects of trials.
Conduct factual and legal research and secure evidence.
Develop trial strategy.
Interview and prepare witnesses.
Draft motions, jury charges, and trial and post-trial submissions.
Negotiate settlements.