General Counsel

Do you want to make a positive social impact using your legal skills, while maintaining schedule flexibility working part time? Join the team at Silicon Valley’s premier software for social good nonprofit. We are seeking an attorney with expertise in intellectual property and transactional law, to serve as General Counsel of Benetech, with responsibility for overseeing all of Benetech’s legal affairs and contracts. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the person in this position will be responsible for all legal matters, including staying up-to-date on potential legal issues facing Benetech, providing legal guidance, and directing the activities of outside pro bono legal counsel.   

This is a one quarter time (25%) position based in Palo Alto, California. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 
· Coordinate and direct all aspects of legal services. 

· Draft contracts, agreements, pleadings, briefs, legal memoranda, letters and other legal documents.  

· Oversee contracts administration to ensure compliance with internal policies and applicable laws; engage in contract negotiations as required. 

· Recruit, supervise and coordinate the activities of outside legal counsel retained by Benetech, including pro bono counsel and law school clinics. 

· Provide legal support and advice to the CEO, CFO, all departments within Benetech and the Board of Directors. 

· Provide expert advice on intellectual property issues. Beneficial if also conversant with data privacy. 

· Work with the CFO on risk management issues. 

· Provide legal advice on any legal matters pertaining to Benetech. 

Qualifications 
· Current membership in the California Bar. 

· At least five years’ relevant legal experience (nonprofit experience a plus) 

· Knowledge concerning legal issues involving intellectual property. 

· Working knowledge of general legal areas, such as governmental contracts, contracts compliance, employment law, international law, etc. 

· Ability to conduct accurate, highest-quality legal research. 

· Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. 

· Ability to use good judgment and discretion, maintain confidentiality, and generate trust and respect. 

· Understanding of and commitment to legal ethics. 

· Strong enthusiasm for Benetech’s mission, and ability to serve as an advocate within the community.