General Counsel

We are seeking an experienced In-House General Counsel to serve as the company’s primary legal advisor, with a strong emphasis on real estate matters and broad responsibility across day-to-day business needs. This role will support leadership, operations, and HR through practical, business-focused legal guidance. The ideal candidate is comfortable working hands-on, building internal processes, and partnering closely with teams across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Real Estate

• Draft, review, and negotiate commercial real estate documents including leases, purchase and sale agreements, development agreements, easements, and related closing documents.
• Manage due diligence for acquisitions and leases, including title, survey, zoning, and permitting issues.
• Oversee real estate closings and coordinate with lenders, brokers, title companies, and outside counsel.
• Advise on property management matters such as lease enforcement, assignments, terminations, or operating expense issues.
• Support site selection, development projects, and ongoing portfolio management.

Collections, Liens, and Litigation Support

• Provide legal oversight and strategic guidance on collections matters, including review of delinquent accounts, demand letters, payment plans, and enforcement options.
• Advise on the filing, enforcement, release, and defense of liens (including mechanic’s and materialman’s liens) related to real estate, construction, or vendor disputes.
• Manage lawsuits and claims involving the company, including collections actions, lien enforcement, contract disputes, and other commercial litigation matters.
• Coordinate with internal teams and outside counsel to assess litigation risk, develop strategy, control costs, and ensure matters align with business objectives.
• Track deadlines, filings, and resolutions related to liens, collections, and lawsuits; maintain appropriate documentation and reporting for leadership.

Corporate and Commercial

• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of commercial agreements including vendor, service, construction, confidentiality, and technology-related contracts.
• Develop and maintain standard agreements, contract templates, and internal review processes.
• Advise leadership on general corporate matters, governance issues, and risk management.

Employment Law and Workers’ Compensation

• Advise HR and management on employment-related matters including discipline, terminations, leaves of absence, accommodations, wage and hour concerns, and internal investigations.
• Support the handling of workers’ compensation claims in coordination with HR and safety teams, including return-to-work and settlement considerations.
• Assist with workplace safety initiatives and compliance efforts.

Compliance, Risk, and Disputes

• Identify legal and regulatory risks and provide practical guidance on compliance.
• Manage claims, disputes, and pre-litigation matters; coordinate with outside counsel when needed.
• Assist with insurance-related matters and claims in partnership with finance and operations.

External Counsel and Legal Operations

• Select and manage outside counsel as needed, ensuring work is scoped appropriately and aligned with business goals.
• Help establish efficient legal processes, tracking, and documentation practices.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and active bar membership in good standing (Louisiana preferred).
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and issue-spotting skills.
• Practical judgment and the ability to deliver clear, business-oriented advice.

Work Environment

This is an onsite position based in Lafayette, Louisiana. The role works closely with leadership and operational teams and may involve occasional visits to company locations or properties.