Senior Attorney

The Senior Attorney assigned to the New York State Police Central Records/FOIL Unit, under the direction of Division Counsel, is responsible for overseeing the activities of the Central Records personnel, under the direct supervision of an Administrative Specialist, and the activities of the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Unit. In addition, the Senior Attorney shall perform the duties required by the Division's Records Access Officer in accordance with Rule 8 (NYCRR 483.3) and Article 6 of the Public Officers Law.

Duties:
Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Responsibilities:

• Research and respond to inquiries concerning legal Records/FOIL issues.
• Draft letters and responses on behalf of the Superintendent of New York State Police.
• Coordinate with and assist Division Counsel with implementing Division policy and legal mandates related to FOIL requests.
• Handle FOIL requests and appeals, communicate with agency staff, insurance agents, private investigators, media personnel and the public on actual and/or potential requests and coordinate press requests with the Division Public Information Office.
• Provide ongoing assistance to Records/FOIL Staff and Division Headquarters Executive Staff.
• Maintain and utilize databases and other time management tools to monitor compliance relative to timeliness of responses and appropriateness of released materials.
• Make recommendations to Division Counsel regarding FOIL appeals.
• Subpoena, Records Retention and Other Records-Related Responsibilities:
• On an ongoing basis, provide technical assistance on various subpoenas and records issues, including privacy-related matters, discovery demands and records retention.
• Prepare documents in response to court orders on subpoenas and appear in court, if needed.
• Function as liaison between the Division of State Police Counsel's Office and the Office of the Attorney General in connection with designated litigation.
• Coordinate with the Division on strategy, papers and discovery in related litigation and recommend settlements and adjustments.

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must have a law degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school; admission to, and member in good standing of, the New York State Bar; and two (2) years of post-bar legal experience.

Incumbents must remain Members of the New York State Bar in good standing for the duration of this employment.

Preference will be given to candidates who possess the following:

• Ability to rapidly understand provisions of applicable law and regulations.
• Ability to handle multiple matters under pressure and deadlines.
• Ability to write clearly and concisely.
• Ability to conduct legal research efficiently.
• Experience in FOIL.

Minimum qualifications must be met by the closing date of the posting.

Additional Comments

Resumes will be evaluated to determine whether candidates will proceed to the interview phase of the process.

The New York State Police will not offer permanent employment to any candidate unless the candidate provides documentation that they are authorized to accept work in the United States on a permanent basis. It is the policy of the New York State Police not to hire F1 or H1 visa holders for permanent employment or to sponsor non-immigrant aliens for temporary work authorization visas or for permanent residence.

The New York State Police values a diverse and inclusive workforce where the unique skills of all employees are valued in support of the mission of the Division. Qualified candidates are considered for employment without the regard to age, race, color, religion, gender identity and expression, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. The New York State Police is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that accept all applications from a wide range of candidates.

The New York State Police complies with federal and state laws and makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and/or sincerely held religious belief. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Division Personnel Office at (518) 457-3840 or personnel@troopers.ny.gov.

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