Our Corporate Counsel provides the in-house knowledge of the law and practical application of the governing and enforcement of AKC’s Rules, Regulations, and policies. Additionally, this role provides legal advice, counsel, and representation to AKC, and its affiliates; assists in the handling of all litigation matters of AKC and its affiliates; drafts and reviews agreements of all types; and identifies and analyzes legal matters having business and decision-making applications. Corporate Counsel assists in protecting AKC’s, and its affiliates’ legal interests and maintaining operations within the scope of the law.
Primary Job Duties
- Advises on the investigations of conduct prejudicial to the sport of purebred dogs.
- Interprets AKC bylaws, rules, regulations, and policies for employees, and advises employees on compliance with same.
- Represents the company’s position in the prosecution of charges before AKC’s administrative disciplinary bodies: Trial Boards and Appeal Trial Boards.
- Oversees Event Committee Appeals heard by a Trial Board, tracks disposition, and provides advice to the Trial Board.
- Represents the Legal Department on the Staff Event Committee and advises the Committee.
- Works with staff and management in developing strategies to reduce claims and litigation. Handles litigation.
- Resolves issues between AKC’s and its affiliates’ customers prior to litigation through communication, negotiation, and explanation.
- Communicates with customers or their attorneys who are threatening to sue AKC or an affiliate.
- Communicates with governmental authorities with respect to requests and investigations.
- Reviews all subpoenas and advises the employee who is responsible for responding. Reviews documents to be sent in response to subpoenas.
- Advises appropriate staff and management on recent developments in the law and their impact on AKC and its affiliates.
- Actively seeks to minimize the use of outside counsel.
- Responds to day-to-day queries and requests from AKC’s and its affiliates’ executive management and staff on legal matters and provides timely responses.
- Other duties as may be assigned.
Required Skills, Specialized Knowledge and Competency Requirements
- J.D. from a nationally-accredited law school
- Admission to one or more state bars, New York State Bar admission is preferred (Must be in good standing, and if not admitted in New York, must be willing to register as in-house counsel in New York)
- Prior trial or administrative hearing experience required
- Excellent drafting, negotiation, communication, and organizational skills
- Non-profit experience a plus
- Occasionally works non-standard hours with moderate overtime.
The salary range for this position in New York City is $145,000 – $160,000/year; however salary offered may vary depending on skills, experience, job-related knowledge, and location.