Staff Attorney (Transactions)

About the role

A Staff Attorney, Transactions assists the Chief General Counsel (CGA) with complex projects involving the sale of property owned by the Detroit Land Bank Authority to for-profit developers and community nonprofit organizations. Transactions range from the sale of a single parcel for a small project up to the development of an entire neighborhood over a period of months or years. The Staff Attorney, Transactions is a goal-oriented and results-driven professional who effectively works with a team of colleagues in a fast-paced, demanding environment to meet the organization’s needs.

Responsibilities

• Draft and negotiate complex real estate transaction documents and assist the Chief General Counsel (CGA) with large real estate transactions, including taking the lead role on major transactions.
• Review real estate transactions for compliance with DLBA disposition and procurement policies, applicable laws, and regulations.
• Conduct legal research related to real estate transactions, agreements, policies, and other legal matters.
• Serve as a legal liaison to the Projects, Disposition, and Data & Analysis Departments, providing advice and counsel on projects, transactions, and operational matters.
• Draft complex authorization documents, including DLBA Board and Detroit City Council resolutions.
• Assist the Disposition Department with the management and legal oversight of ongoing real estate projects.
• Advise and counsel the CGA, CEO, Disposition Department, Data & Analysis Department, and other relevant teams on matters of law and policy, including corporate governance, enabling legislation, state law, land use regulations, environmental law, tax incentives, and abatements.
• Perform other duties as directed by the CGA.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an American Bar Association-accredited law school.
• Member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan.
• At least one year of related legal experience (e.g., real estate, corporate, development).
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills, particularly in public speaking and writing.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and good judgment to identify potential solutions.
• High legal and ethical standards.
• Experience using and proficiency with MS Office.
• Discretion in keeping sensitive material confidential.
• Mission-driven individual with high personal integrity and a strong sense of public service to the residents of the City of Detroit.
• Detroit residency, preferred.