Senior University Counsel

Summary

The Senior University Counsel is an experienced and senior attorney who provides the full spectrum of advice and representation to the University and its affiliated entities. This position personally handles legal matters related to academic and business transactions, compliance, regulation and policy development, general corporate matters, gift planning, taxes, estate and trusts as well as other University matters as assigned. Also, this position interacts frequently with other lawyers in the Office of the Vice President and General Counsel. This position reports directly to the Associate Vice President and Deputy General Counsel.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Independently manages all aspects of litigation and other assigned matters, including: Perform, manage and represent the university in all litigation activities on assigned matters through the trial and appellate stages, including research, pleadings, motions, discovery, depositions, conferences, trials, mediations, arbitrations, appeals, etc.
• Manages litigation matters include civil rights, student affairs, Title IX, privacy, disability and public accommodation, breach of contract, commercial and civil disputes, administrative/agency actions, arbitrations, petitions for writ of certiorari and mandamus.
• Handles academic and business transactional matters, including: Transactions related to academic programs, including structuring affiliations, collaborations and articulation agreements; property, leases, easements, and license/use agreements; and financial transactions.
• Advises and assists university compliance units regarding a broad range of matters and initiatives; including drafting, amending and recommending regulations and policies across the university enterprise.
• Oversees and supports government or regulatory investigations and audits. Advise legal and business colleagues on mitigation and management of legal and business risks; compliance with laws and other authorities related to scholarships and other similarly regulated academic programs.
• Identifies, recommends, and implements process improvements to assist with the handling of litigation matters.
• Oversees and manages the handling of public records, subpoenas and other requests and authorizations for documents.
• Advises and assists with governance, corporate, tax-exempt organization and similar matters related to the overall organization, governance and operation of the university and its affiliated entities.

Education and Experience

Law degree (L.L.B. or J.D.) and seven years experience as an attorney.

Licensure and Certification

Must be a member of the Florida Bar or become a member within twelve months of employment.

Supervision

This position does not typically include supervisory responsibility.

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.