Assistant Corporation Counsel Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Assistant Corporation Counsel positions at local government agencies regularly sponsor H-1B visa and O-1 visas for qualified international attorneys. These roles typically require a J.D. from an accredited law school and bar admission, making them well-suited for specialty occupation requirements under immigration law. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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$110,624.00 - $154,894.00 Annually
Location
Detroit, Michigan, MI
Job Type
Certified-Regular Civil Service
Job Number
2026109115272026LAWJS
Department
Law
Opening Date
07/21/2026
Closing Date
8/9/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit
1800
Description
LAW DEPARTMENT - MUNICIPAL DIVISION
SENIOR ASSISTANT CORPORATION COUNSEL
How would you like to work for a law firm that is the most diverse in the nation?
- Provides opinions and drafts legislation addressing a wide variety of complex and novel subjects including cutting edge constitutional matters
- Has some of the best lawyers in the state always available for consults
- Relaxed and collegial work environment
- Located in exciting downtown Detroit
We are looking for people who are excited to thrive in an environment of impactful change.
Examples of Duties
- Preparation of ordinances and legal opinions.
- Attendance at various meetings at all levels of City government.
- Serves as a legal specialist for assigned clients which functions present specialized legal problems.
- Conducts legal research, analysis and/or evaluation of issues of substantial complexity and/or which may have significant implications for the City.
- Attendance and provision of legal advice at various meetings, at all levels of City government.
- Serves as counsel for various City boards and commissions.
- Counsel and advise clients via email memorandum, telephonic conference, and person-to-person meeting concerning questions of law and procedure.
- Research, review, and analyze relevant statutes, case law, and Attorney General Opinions to provide legal advice and opinions to clients.
- Serve as a leadsperson for the other attorneys, when required.
- Maintain monthly statistics, and other administrative tasks required in maintaining weekly calendar and billing requirements, and organized files.
Minimum Qualifications
- Juris Doctorate Degree from an approved American Bar Association Institution.
- Must be a member in good standing with the Michigan State Bar.
- Must be License to practice in the State of Michigan.
- Seven years of experience in the practice of law, with five years of municipal law-related experience.
Equivalency
Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please attach a cover letter, resume with references, and a writing sample.
Supplemental Information
Evaluation Plan
- Interview: 70%
- Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
- Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%
Additional points may be awarded for:
- Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
- Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points
Knowledge of:
- The techniques of legal research, particularly as applied to municipal corporation law.
- Legal subjects and State and Federal statutes are applicable to municipal corporation law.
- Municipal Codes and Ordinances.
- Michigan “Sunshine Laws”.
- Michigan Home Rule City Act.
Skill In:
- Legal research.
- Legal writing and drafting.
- Analyzing and assessing complex legal issues, facts, and multiple levels of pertinent legislation.
- Effective problem-solving techniques.
- Organization and planning and managing multiple priorities.
- Interpersonal communication.
Ability to:
- Coordinate efforts related to multiple clients and their representatives.
- Display independent judgment, maturity and be proactive in handling legal matters.
- Display judicial temperament and poise.
Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Specific job duties may vary from position to position. The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other criteria prohibited by City, State, or Federal law.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH
- Medical - Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
- Dental
- Vision
INSURANCE
- Life Insurance - Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
- Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) - The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.
PAID TIME OFF
- Sick Leave
- Vacation
- Holidays
OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave.
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
- Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
- In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply;
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
- Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES - Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of Detroit. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of Detroit.
Salary
$110,624.00 - $154,894.00 Annually
Location
Detroit, Michigan, MI
Job Type
Certified-Regular Civil Service
Job Number
2026109115272026LAWJS
Department
Law
Opening Date
07/21/2026
Closing Date
8/9/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit
1800
Description
LAW DEPARTMENT - MUNICIPAL DIVISION
SENIOR ASSISTANT CORPORATION COUNSEL
How would you like to work for a law firm that is the most diverse in the nation?
- Provides opinions and drafts legislation addressing a wide variety of complex and novel subjects including cutting edge constitutional matters
- Has some of the best lawyers in the state always available for consults
- Relaxed and collegial work environment
- Located in exciting downtown Detroit
We are looking for people who are excited to thrive in an environment of impactful change.
Examples of Duties
- Preparation of ordinances and legal opinions.
- Attendance at various meetings at all levels of City government.
- Serves as a legal specialist for assigned clients which functions present specialized legal problems.
- Conducts legal research, analysis and/or evaluation of issues of substantial complexity and/or which may have significant implications for the City.
- Attendance and provision of legal advice at various meetings, at all levels of City government.
- Serves as counsel for various City boards and commissions.
- Counsel and advise clients via email memorandum, telephonic conference, and person-to-person meeting concerning questions of law and procedure.
- Research, review, and analyze relevant statutes, case law, and Attorney General Opinions to provide legal advice and opinions to clients.
- Serve as a leadsperson for the other attorneys, when required.
- Maintain monthly statistics, and other administrative tasks required in maintaining weekly calendar and billing requirements, and organized files.
Minimum Qualifications
- Juris Doctorate Degree from an approved American Bar Association Institution.
- Must be a member in good standing with the Michigan State Bar.
- Must be License to practice in the State of Michigan.
- Seven years of experience in the practice of law, with five years of municipal law-related experience.
Equivalency
Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please attach a cover letter, resume with references, and a writing sample.
Supplemental Information
Evaluation Plan
- Interview: 70%
- Evaluation of Training, Experience & Personal Qualifications: 30%
- Total of Interview and Evaluation T.E.P: 100%
Additional points may be awarded for:
- Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
- Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points
Knowledge of:
- The techniques of legal research, particularly as applied to municipal corporation law.
- Legal subjects and State and Federal statutes are applicable to municipal corporation law.
- Municipal Codes and Ordinances.
- Michigan “Sunshine Laws”.
- Michigan Home Rule City Act.
Skill In:
- Legal research.
- Legal writing and drafting.
- Analyzing and assessing complex legal issues, facts, and multiple levels of pertinent legislation.
- Effective problem-solving techniques.
- Organization and planning and managing multiple priorities.
- Interpersonal communication.
Ability to:
- Coordinate efforts related to multiple clients and their representatives.
- Display independent judgment, maturity and be proactive in handling legal matters.
- Display judicial temperament and poise.
Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. Specific job duties may vary from position to position. The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other criteria prohibited by City, State, or Federal law.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:
HEALTH
- Medical - Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
- Dental
- Vision
INSURANCE
- Life Insurance - Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
- Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) - The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.
PAID TIME OFF
- Sick Leave
- Vacation
- Holidays
OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave.
RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
- Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or
- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
- In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply;
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
- Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES - Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of Detroit. Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of Detroit.
See all 2,243+ Assistant Corporation Counsel Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Assistant Corporation Counsel roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Assistant Corporation Counsel Jobs
Target mid-sized city governments over large municipalities
Smaller cities often have more flexible hiring processes and less competition for legal positions, making visa sponsorship discussions more feasible during recruitment.
Emphasize comparative law expertise from your home country
Local governments value attorneys who understand international legal frameworks, especially for contracts, trade agreements, or sister city relationships requiring cross-border knowledge.
Research the municipality's current legal challenges
Study recent city council meetings, pending litigation, or municipal bond issues to demonstrate how your specialized skills address their specific legal needs.
Consider positions in university towns or government hubs
Cities with major state universities or regional government offices are more familiar with visa processes and typically have established relationships with immigration attorneys.
Highlight experience with regulatory compliance or municipal law
Local governments prioritize candidates with backgrounds in zoning, environmental law, public finance, or administrative procedures that directly apply to municipal operations and governance.
Apply during budget planning cycles in late spring
Most municipal budgets are finalized between May and July, making this the optimal time when departments have clarity on headcount and sponsorship costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Assistant Corporation Counsel positions qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, these positions typically qualify as specialty occupations since they require a J.D. degree and bar admission. The legal nature of the work, combined with the specific educational requirements, aligns well with USCIS specialty occupation criteria for H-1B visa petitions.
Can foreign law degrees support visa applications for these roles?
Foreign law degrees usually require credential evaluation to establish U.S. equivalency. Most employers prefer candidates with U.S. J.D. degrees and bar admission in the relevant state, though some may consider foreign-qualified attorneys with additional U.S. legal education or LLM degrees.
What's the typical approval rate for government legal positions?
Government legal positions generally have strong approval rates due to clear educational requirements and well-documented job duties. However, some USCIS officers scrutinize public sector roles more closely, requiring detailed explanations of how the position serves specialized governmental functions requiring attorney-level expertise.
How long does the H-1B process take for municipal government positions?
Municipal employers often move more slowly than private firms due to budget approval processes and compliance requirements. Expect 6-8 months from initial discussions to H-1B filing, with many local governments preferring to start the process well before the April lottery deadline.
Are there alternatives if H-1B lottery selection fails?
O-1 visas may apply for attorneys with extraordinary ability demonstrated through significant legal achievements, publications, or recognition. Some municipalities also sponsor TN visas for qualified Canadian or Mexican attorneys, though this requires careful analysis of job duties and NAFTA professional categories.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Assistant Corporation Counsel jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
How to find Assistant Corporation Counsel jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Assistant Corporation Counsel positions with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international legal professionals with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on large corporations, government agencies, and multinational companies that frequently sponsor H-1B and O-1 visas for specialized legal roles. These organizations often need counsel with specific expertise in corporate law, compliance, and regulatory matters.