Alternate-Associate Municipal Court Judge

City of Odessa • Odessa, TX

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, serves as City Magistrate on some weekends, holidays, and other times as needed. On an as-needed basis, interprets, applies, and enforces criminal law in the Odessa Municipal Court and presides over court cases. Performs judicial duties according to state and federal laws and City ordinances. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Serves as City Magistrate on an alternating weekend and holiday schedule and, on a rare occasion, weekdays if available. Presides over court proceedings in Municipal Court and performs the full duties of the office as defined by law if needed. Exercises independent judgment within specific legal guidelines; assures official Municipal Court activities are in compliance with federal and state laws and City policies and goals. Monitors changes in state and federal regulations, standards, and legislation governing municipalities. Supports the divisional operations with regular and timely attendance. Must have and maintain a cell phone for City use to hold this position. Supports the relationship between the City of Odessa and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

Requirements

• A Juris Doctorate Degree is required.
• Five years' experience in a public sector legal practice, including experience with criminal and civil law in the state of Texas.
• Knowledge of duties, powers, authorities, and limitations of a Municipal Court Judge.
• Knowledge of State of Texas criminal and civil statutes, rules, administrative orders, policies and procedures, and applicable Federal rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of Texas judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of principles and protocols for the evidentiary gathering of information, documents, financial records and other data that may be used in court and legal hearings.
• Knowledge of legal case management procedures, ethics, and techniques.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of legal, ethical, and professional rules of conduct.
• Knowledge of current political and economic trends in municipal, state, and federal government.
• Knowledge of local community issues and regional community resources available to citizens.
• Skill in reviewing and assessing legal issues and applying justice in a fair, equitable, and expedient manner.
• Skill in listening, researching, analyzing, interpreting, and making case determinations in accordance with judicial procedures and practices.
• Skill in drafting and presenting oral and written instructions.
• Skill in reviewing, understanding, interpreting, and analyzing complex civil and criminal laws and regulations.
• Skill in assessing the veracity of defendants and applying justice in a fair and equitable manner.
• Skill in applying legal and psychological concepts in the administration of justice.
• Skill in reviewing and assessing legal issues and documents.
• Skill in using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships and open communications with City employees, law enforcement agencies, court and justice system representatives, and advocate groups.
• Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of business and specialized software.
• Skill in communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• A valid Texas State Driver's License is required.
• Must be a member of the Texas State Bar Association, licensed to practice law in the state of Texas, and remain active with all Texas Bar annual requirements and Judicial Education requirements.

Responsibilities

• Serves as City Magistrate on an alternating weekend and holiday schedule and, on a rare occasion, weekdays if available.
• Presides over court proceedings in Municipal Court and performs the full duties of the office as defined by law if needed.
• Exercises independent judgment within specific legal guidelines; assures official Municipal Court activities are in compliance with federal and state laws and City policies and goals.
• Monitors changes in state and federal regulations, standards, and legislation governing municipalities.
• Supports the divisional operations with regular and timely attendance.
• Must have and maintain a cell phone for City use to hold this position.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Odessa and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level