Litigation Attorney (Junior - Senior Levels)
About the Role
The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey Law Department has multiple opportunities for highly qualified litigation attorneys, ranging from junior to senior levels, to join its Manhattan-based, 125+ attorney team. Attorneys work on challenging, high-impact matters supporting iconic infrastructure across the New York/New Jersey region. Litigation attorneys handle defense of the agency in areas including personal injury claims at transportation facilities and activities regulated by state and federal authorities, as well as bringing actions against commercial counterparties. The role requires significant time in court and offers the ability to contribute meaningfully to regional transportation programs and initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Proficient in civil procedure in state and federal courts in New York and New Jersey; demonstrate excellent oral and written advocacy skills with significant court appearances, including trials.
- Represent the Agency in state and federal court proceedings and administrative proceedings involving commercial matters in New York and New Jersey.
- Prepare cases for and manage litigation at all levels and stages, including demand, mediation, motion practice, discovery, trial, and appeal.
- Manage significant financial, strategic, and reputational risks to the agency while eliciting input from key internal stakeholders and communicating effectively with senior management.
- Advise on litigation strategy and assess likelihood of prevailing in litigation.
- Negotiate settlements, including drafting and effectuating settlement agreements.
- Ensure the Port Authority conducts its business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
- Advise the General Counsel and other senior management on litigation matters pertaining to the Port Authority.
- Stay abreast of new laws, legal decisions, and legislative actions affecting the Port Authority and advise senior staff of their implications.
Requirements
- Law degree from a top tier or highly regarded law school.
- Member of the Bar in good standing in New York and New Jersey.
- Minimum of 2+ years of litigation experience for entry-level roles, 5+ years for mid-level roles, and 10+ years for senior-level roles, including significant courtroom advocacy and trials, gained through a combination of law firm and in-house or government roles.
- Detail-oriented with strong litigation, analytical, and drafting skills, accompanied by outstanding communication skills.
- Proven ability to perform effectively under pressure and reconcile conflicting priorities toward resolution.
- Sound judgment with a savvy approach to recognizing the intersection of public, business, and political components of work.
- Ability to think strategically and act decisively regarding legal challenges facing the agency, balancing and managing risk within time constraints.
- Ability to take ownership of and responsibility for managing legal work on large, complex projects with aggressive completion deadlines.
- Operate in a constantly evolving complex legal environment while maintaining the highest ethical standards and integrity.
- Ability to train and mentor attorneys with different skill levels.
- Creative problem-solver with high integrity and ethics; able to find pragmatic legal solutions to business issues.
- Emphasis on professional and self-development.
- Engagement among colleagues and business teams in a collegial and business-friendly manner.
Benefits
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.
Pay
The expected compensation range for this role is:
- Minimum: $120,978
- Midpoint: $191,071
- Maximum: $220,000
Schedule
In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week. In-person collaboration is essential, and regular in-office days or team collaboration days may be required based on business needs.