Special Litigation Counsel: Lead Attorney, Defending NYS in Important/Complex Litigation

Queens County Bar Association; City of Albany (NY); Hybrid; USD 81,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

The New York State Attorney General’s Office seeks a Special Litigation Counsel in Albany to lead significant civil litigation. Candidates should have extensive litigation experience, strong legal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including flexible work options.

Benefits

Paid leave

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Retirement benefits

Family-friendly policies

Telecommuting options

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of post-graduate civil litigation experience, focusing on complex litigation.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Experience with trial court legal writing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead attorney on significant and complex civil litigation.
• Draft and edit legal documents.
• Represent clients in court hearings and trials.

Skills

Legal analysis

Writing

Editing

Oral advocacy

Problem-solving

Negotiation

Teamwork

Tools

Case management platforms

Electronic discovery platforms

Job description

State Counsel Division

Litigation Bureau – Albany

Special Litigation Counsel

Reference No. LIT_ALB_SLC_3785

Application Deadline: June 27, 2025

Salary Range: $81,159 - $173,265

To be considered for this opportunity, submit a complete application online at ag.ny.gov/job-postings/attorneys.

The Office of the New York State Attorney General (OAG) is seeking an experienced litigator to serve as a Special Litigation Counsel in the Albany Litigation Bureau. The bureau represents and defends the state of New York and its agencies, officials, and employees in federal and state courts in civil actions involving civil rights, education, social services, public employment, public health, law enforcement, corrections, state finance, insurance, taxation, and other litigation matters arising out of state legislation, regulations, and operations.

The Special Litigation Counsel will act as lead attorney on, or closely supervise, federal and state litigation of heightened importance to New York, including cases against the state’s elected officials such as the Governor, State Comptroller, and legislative members. These cases often involve complex constitutional issues, statutory and regulatory interpretation, and have significant policy and financial implications. The role offers a balance of independent and collaborative work, allowing attorneys to manage their own cases while being supported by a team of litigators committed to cooperation and professional development.

Duties:

• Serve as lead attorney on significant and complex civil litigation from complaint through trial.
• Draft and edit legal documents.
• Represent clients and state agencies in court hearings, oral arguments, and trials.
• Negotiate and evaluate settlements.
• Provide advice and mentorship to attorneys.
• Perform non-litigation assignments and special projects as needed.

Qualifications:

• At least eight (8) years of post-graduate civil litigation experience in federal and New York state courts, with a focus on complex litigation.
• Excellent legal analysis, writing, editing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with legal technology, including case management and electronic discovery platforms.
• Enjoys working with a large team of attorneys.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Significant prior civil jury trial experience in federal and New York state courts.
• Experience litigating Section 1983 civil rights matters.
• Experience handling emergency applications for judicial relief, such as temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunctions.

The salary range for this position is $81,159 - $173,265. For more information on attorney compensation, visit ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/assistant_attorney_general_compensation.pdf.

As an employee of OAG, you will join a dedicated team serving the people of New York through various occupations. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, health, dental, vision, retirement benefits, and family-friendly policies. Our Workplace Flexibilities Program offers options such as telecommuting (up to two days per week) and flexible schedules.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The OAG is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online. Please prepare a complete application including:

• Cover Letter: Address to the Legal Recruitment Unit, explaining your interest and qualifications, including how your life experiences can enhance OAG’s service to a diverse population.
• Resume
• Legal Writing Samples: Provide at least two samples demonstrating your legal writing and analytical skills, preferably trial court memoranda, uploaded as one document.
• References: Submit a list of three supervisory references, including contact information and the nature of your relationship. References will only be contacted after an interview.