Overview
Sycuan Tribal Government is seeking a dedicated and experienced Assistant General Counsel to join our Legal Department. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, this role offers a unique opportunity to provide high-impact legal services to the Tribal Government and Sycuan's Enterprises. If you’re passionate about tribal sovereignty, legal advocacy, and making a meaningful difference in a dynamic community, we invite you to apply.
Job Purpose
The Assistant General Counsel will work in the Sycuan Legal Department under the direct supervision of the General Counsel for the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. In collaboration with the General Counsel, the Assistant General Counsel will provide legal services, representation, and advice on matters affecting the Tribal Government and its enterprises; offer guidance and support to Tribal Government and Casino departments; and, as appropriate, provide limited services to individual tribal members.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
(Note: Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or changed at the sole discretion of Sycuan Management at any time. Related, relevant, or direct experiences may be considered in lieu of minimum requirements indicated.)
- Provides timely and effective legal services, under the direction of the General Counsel, to Tribal officers, directors, employees, government departments, and business enterprises.
- Researches legal issues, prepares analyses, and advises the Tribal Council on policies, codes, ordinances, and actions requiring legal consideration.
- Protects and advances the Tribe’s sovereignty, jurisdiction, and authority.
- Provides legal consultation and guidance to officers, directors, management, and staff on a wide range of issues including contracts, torts, real property, environmental, land use, gaming, child welfare, taxation, code drafting, tribal court development, intellectual property, employment, litigation, and cultural heritage protection.
- Assists in developing strategies on matters involving legislative or regulatory considerations and presents recommendations to the Tribal Council for approval.
- Drafts and analyzes Tribal laws, resolutions, ordinances, regulations, policies, notices, and related documents in coordination with Tribal departments and committees.
- Prepares, reviews, and negotiates complex contracts, agreements, leases, deeds, briefs, legal protests, dispute resolutions, and other Tribal, state, and federal documents.
- Supports and coordinates with specialized outside counsel as needed.
- Represents the Tribe and its officials in judicial, legislative, executive, and administrative proceedings before federal, state, and tribal courts.
- Assists in the preparation, organization, and maintenance of Legal Department records.
- Undertakes special legal projects as assigned by the Tribal Council.
- Provides legal review and negotiation support for contracts, vendor agreements, and related transactions.
- Attends conferences, educational programs, and training to maintain professional growth and expertise.
Job Specifications
Education and Experience
- Must possess a Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Must be an Active Member of the California State Bar, in good standing, and licensed to practice law in California.
- Must have a minimum of 3-7 years of experience as a practicing attorney or in-house counsel, with a preferred emphasis in federal Indian law, tribal courts, torts, contracts, and business management.
Skills and Knowledge
- Strong knowledge of federal, state, local, and tribal law as it relates to tribal government and business activities, preferred.
- Proficiency in reviewing, drafting, and interpreting contracts and related legal documents.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners.
- Strong legal writing skills, including the preparation of clear and well-reasoned opinions, memoranda, and correspondence.
- Advanced research and analytical abilities to evaluate complex legal issues, brief decision-makers, and provide practical recommendations.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Must have demonstrated ability to exercise professionalism and maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to remain composed and exercise sound judgment under pressure.
- Openness to feedback and ability to incorporate constructive criticism.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and electronic calendar management.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Legal
Industries
- Government Administration and Hospitality