In-House Attorney

Company Overview:

We are a leading multifamily real estate owner and operator based in Houston, TX, specializing in the acquisition, development, and management of Class-B and Class-C properties. Our company values a collaborative and dynamic work environment and is dedicated to providing quality housing and superior service to our residents. We are seeking a skilled attorney for immediate placement to join our in-house legal team and provide comprehensive legal support on a range of litigation, tenant and employment matters.

Position Overview:

The In-House Counsel will be responsible for managing and overseeing all minor litigation and dispute resolution matters involving the company and will assist on major litigation. This role requires a strong background in litigation, particularly in real estate and property management, and the ability to handle cases from inception through resolution. The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years of relevant experience, be proactive in managing cases, and work effectively with internal teams and outside counsel. The attorney hired for this role will have guidance and mentorship available from long-term outside counsel and the executive team to make sure they have support as needed. This position will report to primarily to the CEO, and in some matters, to the Senior In-House Counsel (Transactions).

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and lead all phases of minor litigation, including pleadings, discovery, depositions, mediations, and trials.
• Represent the company in real estate litigation, landlord-tenant disputes, contract disputes, construction defect claims, insurance claims, employment disputes, property tax appeals, and other related matters.
• Provide legal advice to internal departments, including property management, finance, and operations, on potential litigation risks and mitigation strategies.
• Draft and review legal documents, including pleadings, motions, briefs, settlement agreements, and demand letters.
• Coordinate with and assist external counsel on larger matters and oversee their work to ensure effective representation and cost management.
• Conduct legal research and stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting multifamily real estate.
• Assist in dispute resolution, including negotiating settlements and managing alternative dispute resolution processes such as mediation and arbitration.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop and implement litigation strategies that align with the company’s goals.
• Maintain organized case files and documentation, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Support the Senior In-House Counsel and other senior executives with special projects as needed.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in the state of Texas and in good standing with the Texas State Bar.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Self-starter with a proactive approach to problem-solving and a high level of attention to detail.
• Willingness to work in the office five days a week and travel within the Houston area for site visits, depositions, hearings, etc.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to handle multiple cases and projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in litigation, preferably with a focus on real estate, property management, or related areas.
• Strong knowledge of Texas landlord-tenant law, contract law, and real estate litigation.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• 20 days PTO, 5 paid holidays
• Professional development and continuing legal education (CLE) opportunities
• Health benefits plan available (not full insurance)
• Collaborative and fast-paced work environment
• The salary is meant to compensate for typical additional benefits that employer does not offer, like health insurance or 401(k). Please keep this in mind when considering salary for the position.