Assistant City Attorney I
Date Adopted by City Manager
12/1/02
Comp. Code
8810
Management
Exempt
Job Title:
Assistant City Attorney I
Definition
Under general supervision of the City Attorney, performs a wide variety of legal work, including the rendering of legal opinions, preparation of legal documents, representation of the City and City officers and employees in civil litigation, and prosecution of criminal actions arising out of violations of City ordinances and regulations; to perform related work as assigned.
Typical Duties
Renders legal opinions, both oral and in writing, to the City Council, City boards and commissions, and City Staff; reviews and interprets Federal, State, County and City constitutions, charters, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, court decisions and other legal authorities; drafts ordinances, resolutions, contracts, leases, and other legal documents; represents the City and City officers and employees in less complex civil litigation filed in both State and Federal court; prepares pleadings, briefs, motions, and other documents; tries cases in courts of original jurisdiction and argues appeals; represents the City at various administrative hearings including employee disciplinary hearings; assists in the enforcement of City ordinances and regulations and prosecutes criminal actions arising out of violations thereof; assists in the administration of the City's liability and workers' compensation insurance programs and advises the City's claims adjustors; assists the City's defense attorneys; attends meetings of the City Council and City boards and commissions when requested by the City Attorney; performs related and other assignments as required.
Tools and Equipment Used
Requires frequent use of personal computer, including word processing and; computerized research tools; calculator, telephone, copy machine, and fax machine.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to operate, finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet.
Desired Qualifications
Knowledge of
Legal principles and practices, including civil, criminal, constitutional and administrative law and procedures; judicial procedures and rules of evidence; methods of legal research; ordinances, statutes and court decisions relating to a municipal corporation.
Ability to
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; analyze and prepare a wide variety of legal documents; conduct research on legal problems and prepare sound legal opinions; prepare and present cases in court; perform work requiring the use of independent judgment; establish and maintain cooperative and effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education
Graduation from an accredited law school with a degree in law.
Experience
None.
Necessary Special Requirement
Membership in the California State Bar or the ability to pass the State Bar within six months of employment.
Additional Requirements
Possession of a valid California Driver License.