Litigation Counsel

Job Description

Job Description

Summary

The primary purpose of this position is to represent the Housing Authority City of Pittsburgh (HACP) in proceedings before administrative agencies, tribunals, and state and federal courts in a variety of civil litigation matters. The incumbent also oversee the insurance programs of the HACP in contract enforcement proceedings and representation of the Authority. The incumbent ensures that the legal interests of the Authority are protected and that all its activities are in compliance with relevant codes, regulations and applicable federal, state and local laws.

All activities must support the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (“HACP” or “Authority”) mission, strategic goals and objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The position duties and responsibilities listed below describe the general nature and scope of work. Other responsibilities, duties and skills may be required and assigned, as needed.

• Manages the work of the department staff; assigning, planning, and reviewing work, evaluating work performance and completing performance evaluations in coordination with General Counsel.

• Represents the Authority in legal proceedings before administrative agencies, tribunals and state and federal court.

• Manages the insurance portfolio and files Proof of Claims, performs audits of insurance programs and cases, reviews accounts for potential legal action.

• Oversee the representation of the Authority in all lease enforcement matters, including appeals and in grievance hearings for both the Public Housing and the Housing Choice Voucher programs by providing supervision of the Counsel Litigation.

• Conducts legal research and analysis as necessary on any litigation matters affecting HACP.

• Prepares position statements, pleadings, motions, appeals, legal opinions, and other documents.

• Manages claims and litigation filed by or against HACP.

• Interacts with other attorneys and adversaries to negotiate settlement agreements.

• Assists with discovery, research, and case management.

• Analyzes and assists with the Authority in complying with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

• Communicates clearly and on a timely basis with management.

• Review, prepare, and/or amend agreements including leases and other documents for compliance with local, state and federal laws, regulations, etc., and conformance with HACP policy and HUD regulations.

• Assist with the eviction process, assuring appropriate preparation, issuance and coordination of all eviction procedures.

• Responsible for contract work (i.e. negotiation and drafting litigation)

• Performs other duties as assigned

Education and/or Experience

A Juris Doctorate and a minimum of 3 years of legal experience in litigation. Must be a member of the Pennsylvania Bar, in good standing. Must have knowledge of EEO and fair housing laws including Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FMLA, and Fair Housing Act and state and city anti-discrimination laws. Must demonstrated experience in contract solicitation, negotiation, drafting, and litigation. Must have the ability to practice law at state and federal levels. Proficient in managing extensive case load. Highly skilled in verbal and written communication. Ability to interact with superiors, co-workers and the general public.

Must possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and be insurable under the Authority’s plan.

Technical Skills

To perform this job successfully, the employee should have strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel,

Outlook, Westlaw and LEXIS). Must have the ability to learn other computer software programs as

required by assigned tasks.

Company Description

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) is a municipal corporation, formed under the United States Housing Act of 1937, charged with providing decent, affordable housing for low-income persons. The Authority is governed by a Board of Directors, which establishes goals, approves policy and budgets, and provides general direction to the HACP Executive Staff.

HACP provides publicly assisted housing comprised of traditional public housing, scattered sites, and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8). We currently house more than 18,000 Pittsburghers, manage more than 2,200 public housing units, and provide oversight of an additional 600+ mixed-finance units.

More than half of our residents live in privately managed rental properties located across the City of Pittsburgh through their participation in the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8).
Our facilities are conveniently located throughout Pittsburgh, with public and senior housing communities located in each region of the city.

HACP’s purpose is to develop and make affordable, safe housing available and help families achieve the independence they strive for. A brighter future is always within reach, thanks to the commitment of HACP.

Company Description

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) is a municipal corporation, formed under the United States Housing Act of 1937, charged with providing decent, affordable housing for low-income persons. The Authority is governed by a Board of Directors, which establishes goals, approves policy and budgets, and provides general direction to the HACP Executive Staff.\r\n\r\nHACP provides publicly assisted housing comprised of traditional public housing, scattered sites, and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8). We currently house more than 18,000 Pittsburghers, manage more than 2,200 public housing units, and provide oversight of an additional 600+ mixed-finance units.\r\n\r\nMore than half of our residents live in privately managed rental properties located across the City of Pittsburgh through their participation in the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8).\r\nOur facilities are conveniently located throughout Pittsburgh, with public and senior housing communities located in each region of the city.\r\n\r\nHACP’s purpose is to develop and make affordable, safe housing available and help families achieve the independence they strive for. A brighter future is always within reach, thanks to the commitment of HACP.