/General Counsel/ Interview Questions
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Describe a time when you had to provide legal advice on an accessibility and inclusion issue. How did you analyze legal requirements and support the company's accessibility goals?

General Counsel Interview Questions
Describe a time when you had to provide legal advice on an accessibility and inclusion issue. How did you analyze legal requirements and support the company's accessibility goals?

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a Corporate Counsel, I had the opportunity to provide legal advice on an accessibility and inclusion issue. It involved a situation where an employee with a disability felt that the company was not providing reasonable accommodations for their needs. To analyze the legal requirements, I reviewed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and relevant case law to understand the obligations of employers. I also consulted with the company's HR department to gather information about the specific accessibility measures in place. To support the company's accessibility goals, I collaborated with HR to draft a comprehensive accessibility policy that outlined the company's commitment to inclusivity and reasonable accommodations. I also conducted training sessions for managers and employees to ensure awareness and understanding of the policy. Additionally, I worked closely with the employee and their supervisor to address their specific accommodation needs, which included modifications to their workspace and flexible working hours. By analyzing the legal requirements and actively supporting the company's accessibility goals, we were able to resolve the issue in a fair and inclusive manner.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Corporate Counsel, I had the opportunity to provide legal advice on an accessibility and inclusion issue that arose when an employee with a disability requested reasonable accommodations. To analyze the legal requirements, I conducted extensive research on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and relevant case law to understand the obligations of employers in providing reasonable accommodations. I also consulted with the company's HR department to gather information about existing accessibility policies and measures. To support the company's accessibility goals, I collaborated with HR to develop a comprehensive accessibility policy that outlined the company's commitment to inclusivity and provided clear guidelines for accommodating employees with disabilities. This policy was communicated to all employees through company-wide training sessions. In working with the employee, their supervisor, and HR, we identified the specific accommodations needed, including modifications to their workspace and flexible working hours. I guided the process of implementing these accommodations to ensure compliance with legal requirements while prioritizing the employee's needs. By actively analyzing the legal requirements and supporting the company's accessibility goals, we were able to create an inclusive environment that met the needs of all employees.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more specific details and showcasing the candidate's legal research skills and experience in supporting accessibility goals. It demonstrates a thorough understanding of the legal requirements, collaboration with HR, and proactive approach in implementing accommodations. However, it can still be improved by providing more examples of analyzing legal requirements and utilizing analytical and problem-solving skills.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a Corporate Counsel, I encountered a complex accessibility and inclusion issue that required in-depth legal analysis and strategic support for the company's accessibility goals. An employee with a visual impairment felt that the company was not providing reasonable accommodations to facilitate their work. To analyze the legal requirements, I conducted an extensive review of the ADA, relevant case law, and guidelines from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This analysis helped me understand the specific obligations of employers regarding reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. To support the company's accessibility goals, I collaborated with HR, IT, and the employee's department to conduct a comprehensive accessibility assessment of the workplace. We identified barriers, such as inaccessible software and insufficient lighting, that hindered the employee's productivity. Based on this assessment, I developed a detailed accommodation plan that included assistive technology, ergonomic adjustments, and enhanced training for colleagues on working with individuals with visual impairments. I also established a protocol for ongoing evaluation and feedback to ensure continuous improvement. Throughout the process, I communicated regularly with the employee, their supervisor, and relevant stakeholders to address concerns and ensure the successful implementation of accommodations. By integrating legal requirements with strategic planning, I successfully resolved the accessibility issue, creating a more inclusive work environment and supporting the company's commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing a highly detailed and comprehensive response. It showcases the candidate's ability to handle complex accessibility issues, conduct in-depth legal research, collaborate with multiple stakeholders, and develop innovative solutions. The answer also highlights the candidate's strong communication and problem-solving skills. It demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing accessibility barriers and supporting the company's accessibility goals. However, it can be further improved by providing specific examples of problem-solving and how the candidate managed challenges throughout the process.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with relevant laws and regulations related to accessibility and inclusion, such as the ADA and guidelines from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
  • Develop a deep understanding of the obligations and requirements of employers in providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
  • Gain experience in conducting legal research and analysis, particularly in the context of accessibility and inclusion issues.
  • Collaborate with HR and other relevant departments to understand existing accessibility measures and policies.
  • Develop strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with individuals with disabilities, their supervisors, and other stakeholders involved in the accommodation process.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Legal research and analysis
  • Supporting accessibility goals
  • Collaboration and communication

Related Interview Questions

More questions for General Counsel interviews