Chief Commissioner

About the role

The Research Division of the Michigan Court of Appeals seeks a Chief Commissioner to lead the district commissioners and commissioner docket clerks.

Responsibilities

• In conjunction with the Research Director, lead the district commissioners and commissioner docket clerks, including assessing human resource needs, recruiting highly qualified staff, determining staff development needs and providing development resources, recognition, discipline, and compensation recommendations.
• Participate as a leader of the Research Division management team in developing and implementing strategic plans to achieve division goals.
• Aid the Research Director in evaluating and responding to judicial feedback.
• Maintain oversight of the workload distribution and work activities of the four district commissioner offices to ensure adequate production of reports for discretionary appeals and original actions.
• Develop concise performance communication plans (PCPs) for district commissioners and commissioner docket clerks, meeting with them at an appropriate frequency and documenting these meetings.
• Compile weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual production reports for the district commissioners.
• Perform the duties of a district commissioner, including reviewing pleadings and preparing reports and orders for the Court's motion dockets.

Education and Experience

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active membership in the State Bar of Michigan.
• Five or more years of progressive experience in appellate law, preferably with additional experience in a managerial or supervisory capacity, and three to five years of experience as a COA district commissioner.

Work Location

The Research Division offers a hybrid work option, allowing employees to work remotely up to three days a week. The candidate selected for the position must reside in Michigan on or before their first day of employment.