Conflicts Counsel: Onboarding & Risk Leadership

Akerman LLP; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

Akerman LLP is seeking a Conflicts Counsel with 3+ years of experience to join the firm’s General Counsel’s Office as a key advisor on client onboarding, engagement risk, and lateral integration.

In addition to clearing conflicts for new matters, this role will manage engagement letters, Outside Counsel Guidelines, and lateral conflict clearance, serving as a trusted resource for partners and administration while supporting growth with risk management.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school and active bar membership.
• 3+ years of experience practicing law at a mid-to-large law firm or comparable setting.
• Working knowledge of professional responsibility and conflicts of interest principles.
• Strong analytical, drafting, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage time-sensitive matters with sound judgment and discretion.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Availability to handle urgent matters outside standard business hours.
• Prior experience in conflicts, ethics, or professional responsibility preferred.
• Prior experience within a law firm General Counsel’s office or risk function preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end client engagement letter process.
• Review engagement terms for policy and risk compliance.
• Identify risks and draft proposed revisions.
• Coordinate Outside Counsel Guidelines (OCGs) review and approvals.
• Lead review and negotiation of client OCGs.
• Coordinate input across internal stakeholders.
• Draft exceptions and revisions aligned with firm policies.
• Manage client communications regarding OCG modifications.
• Serve as primary contact for partners and admin teams on engagement and waiver matters.
• Partner with recruiting and practice leadership on lateral onboarding strategy.
• Provide support on conflicts clearance and other assignments.

Skills

Analytical skills

Drafting skills

Communication skills

Education

J.D. from ABA-accredited law school

Job description

Akerman LLP is seeking a Conflicts Counsel with 3+ years of experience to join the firm’s General Counsel’s Office as a key advisor on client onboarding, engagement risk, and lateral integration.

In addition to clearing conflicts for new matters, this role will manage engagement letters, Outside Counsel Guidelines, and lateral conflict clearance, serving as a trusted resource for partners and administration while supporting growth with risk management.