What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager of Contested Matters position at Stillman Law Office?
Location: Farmington Hills, Michigan (onsite)
Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Legal Manager (non-attorney) to lead our legal department with a focus on contested matters and litigation strategy. This role is responsible for overseeing end-to-end case management, supervising legal staff, and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. This role reports directly to our Attorney Partner.
The Legal Manager plays a critical role in minimizing legal risk, maximizing recovery efforts, and safeguarding the organization’s interests. This position also serves as a key advisor to leadership, supports operational decision-making, and fosters strong, trusted client relationships through clear communication and strategic legal guidance.
Key Responsibilities & Qualifications:
The Legal Manager will manage and direct all aspects of contested matters while providing strategic leadership and collaboration across the organization, including:
Leadership & Oversight
- Manage and direct the legal department in handling all contested matters
- Supervise, mentor, and develop legal staff, fostering collaboration, accountability, and professional growth
Litigation Strategy & Case Management
- Design and implement effective litigation strategies to achieve favorable outcomes
- Oversee preparation, filing, and management of pleadings, motions, and supporting documentation
- Provide timely legal guidance to leadership and operations teams regarding case status and strategy
Client Communication & Advisory
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients on contested matters
- Deliver clear status updates, legal recommendations, and settlement options
- Draft, review, and negotiate legal documents, contracts, and settlement agreements
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with operations, compliance, and client service teams to align legal strategies with organizational goals
- Proactively identify and address legal risks impacting internal stakeholders
Compliance & Risk Management
- Monitor changes in legislation and legal precedents and advise leadership on potential impacts
- Update and implement internal policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure compliance
- Identify, assess, and mitigate legal risks across contested matters and recovery efforts
Qualifications & Requirements
- Minimum of 5 years of litigation experience (creditor’s rights/collections experience a plus)
- Prior leadership or management experience overseeing legal teams preferred
- Strong knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards
- Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, negotiation, and communication skills
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