Unit Chief Counsel

Arizona Department of Administration • Tucson, AZ

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Arizona Attorney General’s Office State Government Division/Liability Management Section is seeking a Unit Chief Counsel to represent state agencies and state employees in matters covered by the Risk Management Division of the Arizona Department of Administration. The position provides legal advice and representation in complex civil litigation in state and federal courts, working closely with Risk Management and outside counsel to anticipate and respond to client needs.

The Unit Chief also manages the Unit, mentors and supervises its attorneys and staff, and helps assign claims and lawsuits while monitoring workloads and performance. The role includes personnel responsibilities, sound judgment in legal and management matters, and furthering the policies of the Office and Section. Travel within and outside Arizona is required. The position may allow remote work up to two days per week, depending on business needs and continued achievement of performance measures.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate.
• Active Arizona State Bar license and admission in good standing with the Arizona State Bar.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in civil litigation, including pretrial and trial practice.
• Knowledge of applicable statutes, case law, court rules, legal techniques, American jurisprudence, and legal document formats.
• Knowledge of practical factors affecting litigation decisions, including opposing counsel strategies, judicial perspectives, and victim or witness considerations.
• Knowledge of financial considerations for the State and ethical standards applicable to lawyers and public employees.
• Strong legal and factual issue analysis, legal research, legal writing, oral presentation, negotiation, and persuasive communication skills.
• Ability to manage a significant volume of high-exposure cases and handle a high volume of work and stressful situations.
• Ability to mentor, train, and supervise attorneys and staff and effectively use subordinate staff.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in case strategy and legal advice and apply professional ethical rules.
• Ability to identify issues, assess evidence, articulate legal arguments, and communicate with clients.
• Ability to travel within and outside Arizona, including overnight stays.
• Valid Arizona driver’s license and consent to periodic driving-record checks.
• Submit a writing sample with the resume or application profile that analyzes a substantive legal issue and demonstrates legal reasoning and advocacy.
• Successful completion of fingerprinting and a criminal background check if under serious consideration for hire.
• Successful completion of the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify) as a newly hired State employee.

Responsibilities

• Analyze legal issues and conduct legal research; present the State’s position in motions, briefs, and court.
• Directly supervise unit attorneys and staff, including assigning cases, providing advice and mentoring, and evaluating performance.
• Assist with resolution of personnel and disciplinary issues.
• Review and assign new matters and monitor attorney workloads.
• Prepare quarterly reports, Rule 14 memoranda, and other administrative reports.
• Prepare for and attend case evaluation meetings, depositions, mediations, and focus groups.
• Read and analyze recent court decisions and rule changes affecting practice areas.
• Attend office meetings, continuing legal education, and other administrative matters.
• Work closely with Risk Management and outside counsel.
• Travel within and outside Arizona, including overnight stays.

Benefits

• Sick leave.
• Paid parental leave of up to 12 weeks per year for a newborn or newly placed foster or adopted child (pilot program).
• Vacation and 10 paid holidays per year.
• Health and dental insurance.
• Retirement plan through the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS); enrollment eligibility becomes effective after 27 weeks of employment.
• Life insurance and long-term disability insurance.
• Optional short-term disability insurance, deferred compensation plans, and supplemental life insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree