OVERALL DESCRIPTION

The Deputy General Counsel-Litigation is responsible for managing all tort litigation which currently involves approximately 700 – 800 open cases. Manages the handling of these cases from service of the complaint until the case is closed; ensures that settled cases and verdicts are paid and cases are appropriately closed without payment. Manages an in-house staff of approximately thirty (30) employees including SEPTA’s Special Counsels, staff attorneys, paralegals and administrative assistants as well as other support staff. Assigns certain cases to outside counsels and manages their performance. Conducts case conferences on each case that is approaching trial. Decides whether a case should be tried or provides the appropriate settlement authority with frequent updates to the General Counsel on trial preparation and settlement status for notable cases. Assists in the negotiation of complex cases. Advises General Counsel on cases approaching trial for settlement or trial decisions. Advises General Counsel on developments in related case law.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

•  Advises General Counsel on new case law affecting SEPTA.
• Assigns all new cases to staff attorneys.
• Decides which cases should be sent to outside counsel due to the complexity of issues or exposure.
• Conducts case conferences and decide on settlement authority or trial authorization.
• Ensures that attorneys prepare the cases in an appropriate manner.
• Directs and manages the Litigation staff.
• Negotiates complex cases and cases involving multiple plaintiffs.
• Supervises outside counsel in coordination with the Claims Director.
• Coordinates with the Claims Department to settle cases before they are assigned. Attends conferences to advise the Claims Department on individual cases that are not yet in suit.
• Handles all disciplinary matters or performance issues involving the litigation staff.
• In coordination with Governmental Affairs, monitors legislation that would affect SEPTA’s Legal defenses including but not limited to SEPTA’s immunity and the statutory cap on damages.
• Participates in committees with the local judiciary to provide SEPTA’s opinions on prospective court policies.
• Provides legal advice on issues as requested by General Counsel
• Attends General Counsel’s Executive Committee meetings offering advice on Departmental policy.
• Monitors the caseload of the staff attorneys to ensure appropriate representation.
• Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures, as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises, or hazards in the hazards affecting self and other employees is responsible for the individual’s own safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
• Performs other assignments as directed.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school in the United States.
• Requires admission to practice law in Pennsylvania, and the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District.

• Must have 10 years of experience as a full-time practicing lawyer handling all aspects of tort cases including trying cases to jury verdicts.

• Experience dealing with post-trial issues and appellate practice.

• Must have experience managing attorneys overseeing all aspects of litigation including negotiating final settlements.

• Proven supervisory/leadership experience required.

• Must demonstrate the ability to communicate and provide sound legal advice.

• Excellent written, interpersonal skills and executive presence required.

• Organizational skills are required including the ability to work on numerous projects and cases simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for document creation, data analysis, and presentation delivery.
• Skilled in using Microsoft 365 applications, including advanced Excel functions, Word formatting, and Outlook email management.