Mission Statement

The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) supports the dynamic educational environment of Columbia University by providing legal advice to foster sound decision-making in all areas of operation, instruction, research and administration.

Columbia University as an institution is our client. Our function is to provide, manage and coordinate quality legal services including legal counsel and representation, litigation and legal risk management, contract drafting and review, compliance oversight and other services and counsel to all parts of the University, including the Columbia University Medical Center. As part of these services, OGC provides counsel in decision-making to the Board of Trustees, the President, Provost, Vice Presidents, Deans and Directors, faculty, supervisors and other employees acting in their capacity as employees. OGC provides advice on the legal implications of policy and other decisions under applicable law, regulations, and policies, in addition to representing the University in litigation matters, administrative and regulatory hearings, and significant business transactions.

It is the goal of our Office to provide counsel to minimize legal risk and costs, reduce litigation exposure, and ensure legal compliance, and to do so efficiently, expeditiously, reliably and professionally.