City Attorney
Date Adopted by City Manager
12/01/02
Comp. Code
8810
Management
Exempt
Job Title:
City Attorney
Definition
Subject to policy direction of the City Council, to provide a wide range of professional and legal services to the City Council, City Manager, City departments and various boards and commissions; to perform related work as assigned.
Typical Duties
Perform legal research and prepare opinions on various legal problems for the City Council, City Manager, City departments, and various boards and commissions; confer with and render assistance to the City Manager and department heads in establishing departmental policies by developing and applying legal points and procedures; recommend changes in policies and procedures in order to meet legal requirements; serve as Chief Legal Advisor to the City Council; prepare and draft ordinances, resolutions, contracts, deeds, leases, and other legal documents and instruments; review such documents and offer opinions as to legal acceptability when presented to the City for consideration by an outside agent or agency; review proposed State legislation relating to City government; represent the City in civil litigation and prosecuting criminal violations of City ordinances; perform equivalent duties as counsel for the Chico Redevelopment Agency; perform related assignments as necessary.
Tools and Equipment Used
Requires frequent use of personal computer, including word processing and spreadsheet programs; 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 required to walk; use hands to 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 municipal corporations.
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; prepare sound legal opinions; prepare and present cases in court; perform legal work requiring the use of independent judgment; establish and maintain cooperative and effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Experience
Five years of experience performing duties comparable to those of an attorney in the office of the City Attorney or a County Counsel.
Education
Equivalent to a Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited law school.
Additional Requirements
Possession of a valid California Driver License.