In-House Counsel - Automotive Franchise Law

Job title: In-House Counsel - Automotive Franchise Law

About the Role Hyundai Motor America (HMA) seeks an experienced in-house attorney to advise on all legal issues affecting the manufacturer/dealer relationship, including dealer franchise litigation. The role supports HMA/GMA Business Departments and Regions, drafts and reviews dealer agreements and related market representation documents, and manages nationwide dealer litigation. The position requires independent judgment and the ability to develop policies related to dealer/manufacturer relationships.

What You'll Do

• Provide legal advice and counsel on all legal issues affecting the manufacturer/dealer relationship, including management of dealer franchise litigation.
• Provide ongoing legal advice and counsel to HMA/GMA Business Departments and Regions on legal issues affecting the manufacturer/dealer relationship, including interpretation of HMA’s/GMA’s dealer agreement and issues relating to dealer franchise law, distribution, warranty and pricing issues.
• Draft and/or review documents relating to market representation actions and dealer transactions with HMA/GMA, including letters of intent, relocation commitment letters, notices, asset purchase agreements, dealer appointment notices to state agencies, etc.
• Draft and/or review documents relating to the HMA/GMA Dealer Sales and Service Agreement.
• Manage manufacturer/dealer litigation across the country; management includes supervising the matter, formulating case strategies and tactics, marshaling the company resources for prosecution of the case, and the handling of discovery.
• Maintain current knowledge of and provide regular updates to HMA/GMA Business Departments and Regions on recent developments in state dealer franchise laws, federal regulations and case law.
• Assist HMA/GMA Business Departments with the development of dealer/manufacturer policies and procedures, including forms for letters, contracts and agreements with dealers; review and provide training to HMA/GMA Business Departments and Regions on franchise law, best practices, and the use of dealer contact reports.
• Assist Audit and Finance on legal issues relating to dealer incentive and warranty audit matters; manage related dealer responses.
• Conduct, as needed, research into various state law franchise affairs; prepare memoranda regarding the same.
• High level of independent judgment needed for problem solving and identification of critical issues affecting HMA/GMA’s dealer body.
• Support various HMA/GMA departments through obtaining feedback and suggestions for program improvements, and considering what changes are feasible and appropriate.