Senior Research Attorney

Michigan Court of Appeals; Detroit (MI); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan Court of Appeals is seeking a Senior Research Attorney in the Research Division. The role reports to a Research Supervisor and involves preparing research reports on difficult appeals, drafting proposed opinions, and maintaining time records.

Mentorship to junior researchers is included, with training and staying current on developments in law. The position requires a JD from an accredited law school, active State Bar of Michigan membership, and at least three years of appellate

Qualifications

• Three or more years of experience in the practice of appellate law.

Responsibilities

• Prepare research reports in difficult civil, criminal, or administrative appeals with neutral presentation and careful citations to the record.
• Prepare proposed opinions, except where publication is recommended in the research report.
• Meet quality and production expectations for research reports and proposed opinions.
• Maintain an accurate record of time spent on each case and submit weekly production reports.

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Job description

The Research Division of the Michigan Court of Appeals is currently seeking qualified applicants for the position of Senior Research Attorney. Reporting to a Research Supervisor, the primary responsibilities for this position include:

• Prepare research reports in the more difficult civil, criminal, or administrative appeals. For each case assigned, read appellate briefs, review lower court records, and conduct independent research on issues raised on appeal. Research reports contain a comprehensive and neutral presentation of the material facts, with citation to the lower court record, a recitation of the issues raised by the parties, a summary of the parties’ arguments, a thorough analysis of the law and facts for each issue, and a recommendation regarding the appropriate disposition based on a well-reasoned application of the law to the facts, with citation to supporting authority.
• Prepare proposed opinions, except where publication is recommended in the research report.
• Meet quality and production expectations as required by the Research Division with respect to research reports and proposed opinions.
• Maintain an accurate record of time spent on each case and submit weekly production reports to the Research Supervisor and Research Assistant.
• Act as a mentor to, and work closely with, research attorneys to improve their research and writing skills and ensure that their reports and opinions meet minimum standards of quality.
• Attend training, special meetings, and work-related sessions to keep current on developments and changes in the law.
• Read newly released opinions and legal publications to keep abreast of the law.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active membership in the State Bar of Michigan. Three or more years of experience in the practice of appellate law, either private or public sector required. Current or prior Court of Appeals experience preferred.

WORK LOCATION:

Cadillac Place, Detroit, MI. At present, the Research Division offers a hybrid work option, allowing employees to work remotely up to three days a week. The candidate selected for the position must reside in Michigan after acceptance of employment.