Risk Management 

The Law Department created our new Risk Management Division in March 2023.  This new division will assist agency partners in identifying and mitigating risks to decrease the potential for harm to this City’s residents and visitors while protecting the City financially.  Risk Management will work with agency partners to evaluate existing processes and operations, based on risks identified in litigation, and counsel agencies on how to mitigate their legal risk through recommended program changes or, where applicable, waivers and indemnifications.  The Division will leverage available data to identify potential future risks with a goal of prevention.  It will work with other Divisions within the Law Department to understand the risks associated with their work and collaborate to mitigate those risks, and will advise agencies and elected officials on the risks associated with contemplated and proposed programs. Risk Management will coordinate with the Electronic Discovery Division to expand on the Law Department’s existing preservation program to include training all relevant agencies and staff on the importance of early evidence preservation and assist agencies in establishing a preservation program if one does not currently exist. The Division will also help agencies create and maintain a proactive data management process so that, when lawsuits are filed, the Law Department has the data it needs to defend the lawsuits and either dispose of them without settlement or reach an equitable settlement agreement. Risk Management will analyze the impact of court appointed monitorships on related pending litigation across the Law Department. 

What Experienced Attorneys Do

Experienced attorneys in Risk Management work on high level matters involving litigation risk, agency operations, and public sector programs. Division attorneys partner with City agencies to identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks, advising on program design, operational changes, waivers, and indemnification. Attorneys leverage litigation trends and data analysis to proactively address emerging risks and prevent future claims. Division attorneys collaborate with other Divisions/units within the Law Department to evaluate risk across subject areas and advise agencies and elected officials on the legal implications of proposed initiatives. They also support the development and implementation of evidence preservation practices in coordination with the Electronic Discovery Group, including training agency personnel and establishing preservation protocols. Attorneys play a central role in overseeing court-appointed monitorships, tracking agency compliance with court mandates, and analyzing the impact of such oversight on related litigation. The Division also assists agencies in developing proactive data management practices to support effective litigation defense and resolution.

The Division seeks attorneys with experience in litigation, government operations, and/or risk management. Candidates should have strong analytical and advisory skills, the ability to work independently, and experience counseling senior stakeholders. Experience with data-driven analysis, compliance oversight, or complex institutional reform matters is a plus.

Minimum Requirements:

• Candidates must be admitted and in good standing with the New York State Bar.
• Candidates must have municipal government experience.
• Candidates must possess a demonstrated history of excellent judgment and sound decision-making skills.
• Candidates should be creative problem-solvers who are adept at counseling and coalition building.
• The ideal candidate also will possess excellent interpersonal, writing and oral advocacy skills with substantial legal experience. Experience in risk management is preferred, though not required.
• Candidates must possess a commitment to public service and the Law Department values of excellence, dedication, diversity, integrity, justice, professional development, respect, supportive work environment and teamwork.