Assistant Special Counsel, Office of Hearing Officers

Overview

The Assistant Special Counsel in the Office of Hearing Officers performs a variety of duties, applying advanced analytical skills to provide effective legal support to FINRA Hearing Officers in connection with the adjudication of disciplinary proceedings, expedited proceedings, and related actions against FINRA-registered firms and associated persons. The incumbent also provides high level support for adjudication of disciplinary proceedings initiated by other self-regulatory organizations.

This is senior–level legal work with independent research on complex matters arising in the Office of Hearing Officers (OHO).

• Serves as a legal advisor to Hearing Officers and attends hearings and pre-hearing conferences as requested, participating in the adjudication process for disciplinary and expedited proceedings.
• Provides counsel in determining whether substantive violations of federal securities laws, SEC rules, MSRB rules, FINRA rules, or other applicable self-regulatory organization rules have occurred.
• Conducts legal research and prepares memoranda related to motions, evidentiary issues, hearings, and decisions.
• Manages case life cycle and hearing process; coordinates with OHO staff, industry panelists, and parties as required.
• Reviews transcripts, exhibits, evidence, motions, and briefs; outlines and summarizes significant points.
• Independently drafts well-written default and expedited decisions and orders, and assists with draft decisions in complex proceedings with multiple respondents or multiple allegations.
• Prepares legal memoranda advising hearing panelists on issues of law and procedure, compliance with FINRA’s Sanction Guidelines, and other legal requirements.
• Prepares and maintains policies, procedures, and manuals for expedited and disciplinary proceedings.
• Participates in the rule-making process related to amendments to the Code of Procedure; advises OHO staff on the impact of proposed rules and changes to procedures.
• Maintains OHO’s legal research database and updates research outlines on specific legal topics and sanctions.
• Develops and initiates reports and communications for the Chief Hearing Officer and Deputy Chief Hearing Officer.
• Demonstrates FINRA’s values and collaborates with others to advance investor protection and market integrity.

• Provides suggestions to increase efficiency and effectiveness of office procedures.

• Law degree and license to practice in applicable jurisdictions based on licensing requirements.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of litigation practice, including courtroom experience and handling of pretrial matters, trials, and appeals.
• At least one year of experience at FINRA preferred.
• Understanding of applicable law, current judicial interpretations, and ability to analyze and advocate orally and in writing.
• Advanced oral and written communication and litigation skills.
• Proven experience in preparing legal memoranda, motions, and briefs, or equivalent.
• Advanced knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations relevant to litigation and the securities industry; knowledge of federal securities laws, SEC rules and regulations, and self-regulatory rules is preferred.

• Hybrid work environment with defined in-person presence requirements.
• Travel required; extended hours may be required.

For work performed in Los Angeles and San Francisco, CA, CO, FL, TX, IL, PA, MA, MD, VA, Washington, DC, NY and NJ, salary ranges are provided by location below. Actual compensation varies based on factors including skill set, experience, education, and market considerations.

• Los Angeles, CA: $199,994 – $299,990
• San Francisco, CA: $200,009 – $300,013
• CO/FL/TX: $131,100 – $254,000
• IL/PA: $144,000 – $279,500
• MA/MD/VA/Washington, DC: $150,600 – $292,300
• NY/NJ: $150,600 – $305,000

To be considered for this position, please submit an application. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

The information provided above indicates the general nature and level of work of the position and is not a comprehensive inventory of duties, responsibilities and…