Senior Counsel, Policy & Complex Litigation

City of Detroit; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Detroit Water and Sewerage Department is seeking a Senior Associate General Counsel to assist the Chief General Counsel with expert legal strategy, policy development, and high‑level litigation. The role requires strong research, writing, and independent judgment, and is not an entry level position.

The candidate will supervise outside counsel, support legislative processes, review and draft legal documents, and manage multiple priorities for DWSD at a high level of discretion.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited school is preferred.
• Currently licensed to practice law in Michigan with substantial litigation experience preferred.
• Experience with discovery, depositions, and complex litigation is required.

Responsibilities

• Act as a senior legal policymaker for the organization and support DWSD’s Board of Water Commissioners.
• Handle complicated litigation and dispute matters for DWSD, including state and federal matters.
• Provide training to junior staff and assist in drafting contracts, memoranda, and opinions.

Skills

Litigation management

Legal research

Michigan law

Confidential information handling

Microsoft Office

Education

Juris Doctor

Michigan bar admission (active)

Tools

WestLaw

Lexis Nexis

Job description

Detroit Water and Sewerage Department is seeking a Senior Associate General Counsel to assist the Chief General Counsel with expert legal strategy, policy development, and high‑level litigation. The role requires strong research, writing, and independent judgment, and is not an entry level position.

The candidate will supervise outside counsel, support legislative processes, review and draft legal documents, and manage multiple priorities for DWSD at a high level of discretion.