About the Role
Under limited supervision, the General Counsel delivers comprehensive legal counsel, directs legal strategy, and oversees key functions including Risk Management, Title IX, and Student Assignment. This leader will represent the Board in legal proceedings, manage major litigation, contribute to policy development, and serve as a trusted advisor on matters with significant political, financial, and public impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide and oversee legal counsel to the Board, Superintendent, and UCPS staff
- Serve on the UCPS Cabinet and support Board priorities
- Oversee litigation strategy; collaborate with outside counsel
- Draft, review, and approve policies, bylaws, contracts, and legal documents
- Support property acquisition and school construction legal matters
- Anticipate legal issues and guide senior leadership through timely solutions
- Lead Risk Management initiatives
- Serve as Parliamentarian at Board meetings
- Support Board policy development and serve as liaison to the Policy Committee
- Select and retain outside counsel as needed
- Provide legal training to administrative staff
- Participate in investigations and support operational oversight
- Engage with state-level bodies including the NC State Board of Education and NC Court System
- Communicate professionally across various platforms
- Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
Juris Doctorate (JD)Admission to the North Carolina BarExperience with legal issues facing public school districts5+ years representing Boards of EducationDesired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Self-starter with strong legal insight into public educationAbility to work effectively with diverse individuals and groupsStrong relationship-building and communication skillsAbility to perform under pressure and in emergency situationsCommitment to confidentiality, accuracy, and professionalismIn compliance with Federal Law, Union County Public Schools administers all education programs, employment activities and admissions without discrimination against any person on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age or disability.
DISCLAIMER : This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned.