Deputy Commissioner and Counsel

Minimum Qualifications Law degree from an accredited law school: admission to, and member in good standing of, New York State Bar, and ten years (10) of relevant post-bar experience.
Preferred candidate must have:
- Extensive experience as a litigating attorney, administering legal advice on existing and new legislation, and federal and state regulations governing a large-scale agency operation.
- Preferred candidate will have 5 + years experience supervising high level legal staff.
- Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication and organizational skills with demonstrated skill in negotiating and conflict.
- Ability to plan, organize, mediate, integrate and manage a complex organization.
- The position requires that the individual qualify as a Peace Officer within one year of appointment.
- All candidates must be qualified to hold such office and must be a U.S. Citizen. New York State residency is not required to apply for the position; however, it is required to be appointed to the position.

Duties Description The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NYS DOCCS) Deputy Commissioner and Counsel provides executive leadership in conjunction with the DOCCS mission, vision, and value statements. The incumbent reports directly and serves as legal counsel to the Commissioner of DOCCS, directs the analysis and administration of legal advice and support for the agency and establishes policies and procedures at the highest level.
The incumbent oversees Counsels Office which is responsible for all of the legal services necessary for the day-to-day operations of 44 correctional facilities, 7 community supervision regions, as well as its Central Office. The primary duties of this office fall within the following general classifications: litigation, legislation, house counsel/general legal, all capitol construction, real estate and environmental affairs, sentencing review, administrative proceedings, and extradition oversight.
The incumbent oversees the review and proposal of federal and state regulations which directly impact the agency; reviews all federal and state regulations which impact fiscal affairs; and provides legal advice and assistance to DOCCS executive level policy makers. The incumbent serves as the legal liaison to the Governors office on all matters of state and federal concern.
The incumbent oversees all areas of agency litigation, including the authority and preparation of memorandums that propose settlement. House counsel and legal counsel require attorneys to provide representation in all administrative proceedings, such as actions before the Division of Human Rights, incarcerated disciplinary hearings, and visitation suspensions. In addition, this area encompasses the promulgation of all rules and regulations, the processing of all visitation and freedom of information law requests and appeals (FOIL), and oversight of all facility law libraries.

Additional Comments Work hours to be discussed.

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.