Senior Associate General Counsel

SUMMARY:

The Senior Associate General Counsel works under the direct supervision of the General Counsel. The Senior Associate General Counsel provides strategic legal advice and counsel to the Pechanga Band of Indians and all of its governmental and commercial entities to advance compliance with applicable laws, and minimize legal risk to the Tribe and its assets. The Senior Associate General Counsel also advocates for the Tribe’s interests at the direction of the General Counsel in negotiations and legal and administrative proceedings.

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Juris Doctor Degree from an ABA accredited law school required.
Member of the California State Bar and licensed to practice law in the state of California required OR willing to take the California Bar and must pass within two bar exam cycles as a condition of employment
No less than 5 years’ experience in American Indian law preferred
Comprehensive understanding of tribal sovereignty and tribal jurisdictional matters
Superior ability to conduct legal and general research that is accurate and thorough
Superior ability to provide accurate, useful, and understandable information and reliable legal advice
Excellent capacity to organize and establish priorities
Ability to manage multiple projects effectively and meet firm deadlines
Strong written and oral advocacy skills
This position must comply with the Pechanga Tribal Government’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy, including required drug testing prior to and during employment, and must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation

Respond to and provide legal advice to the General Counsel on any issues affecting the Tribe or any of its governmental or commercial entities
Enhance and protect the Tribe’s sovereignty, jurisdiction and authority
Conduct legal research
Provide legal representation in administrative proceedings and litigation
Review contracts and engage in contract negotiations as directed
Ensure tribal compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies through regular consultation with internal clients
Identify and assess legal risks and opportunities and advise internal clients accordingly
Independently manage legal matters and projects ranging from basic to complex
Educate internal clients on legal matters, policies, and procedures
Oversee and coordinate retained outside legal counsel as directed by the General Counsel to ensure the Tribe’s interests are being protected.
Work with the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel to draft Tribal legislation, ordinances, resolutions, administrative rules and regulations and other documents and instruments
Assist the General Counsel in planning, developing, coordinating, advising, and directing the activities of the office
At the direction of General Counsel assist with training of junior attorneys and staff.
At the direction of General Counsel attend conferences, educational courses and training, to maintain professional growth and development and improve professional competence