Legal Counsel – In‑House / Consulting (NYC)

About the role

Our client, a leading architecture firm in New York City, is seeking a detail‑oriented Legal Counsel to oversee legal operations and the professional insurance portfolio. The role combines in‑house responsibilities with the option for part‑time consulting, providing strategic advice to executive and design teams.

Key responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate owner‑architect agreements, interior design purchasing agreements, consultant contracts, and vendor terms, including AIA Contract Documents.
• Manage the firm’s insurance portfolio: Professional Liability (E&O), Commercial General Liability, and Employment Practices Liability Insurance.
• Identify and mitigate design‑liability risks, construction administration disputes, and project delay claims.
• Protect proprietary designs, custom furniture concepts, and digital assets through copyright, trademark, and robust NDAs.
• Monitor corporate compliance, sales‑tax obligations on FF&E, and multi‑state professional licensing requirements.

Required profile

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the State Bar Association.
• 4–7 years of legal experience, preferably split between a law firm and an in‑house setting in construction law, real‑estate development, or design‑professional liability.
• Deep understanding of the architectural/interior‑design lifecycle, procurement risks, mechanics’ liens, and industry insurance structures.

Required skills

• Contract drafting and negotiation.
• Insurance portfolio management.
• Risk mitigation and dispute resolution.
• Intellectual property protection (copyright, trademark, NDAs).
• Compliance and licensing monitoring.

What we offer

• Annual salary starting at $135,000 for full‑time permanent placement.
• Option for part‑time consulting at an hourly rate.
• Hybrid work schedule: 4 days onsite, 1 remote day.
• Location in a modern New York office.