Assistant City Attorney II-III

City of Santa Barbara•Santa Barbara, CA

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

The City Attorney's Office for the City of Santa Barbara is seeking an experienced, collaborative litigation attorney to join our team as an Assistant City Attorney II, or III, depending on qualifications and experience. This position is dedicated exclusively to civil litigation and provides an exciting opportunity to represent the City in complex and meaningful legal matters affecting the community. Working under the guidance and mentorship of a highly experienced senior litigator, the successful candidate will manage a diverse civil litigation caseload involving the City, its officers, and employees.

Requirements

Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California.
Demonstrated civil litigation experience sufficient to independently handle discovery, depositions, law and motion practice, and trial preparation.
Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
Strong judgment, professionalism, and the ability to manage multiple matters in a collaborative team environment.
Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school
Lead counsel in two or more jury trials.
Attorneys in this position must be able to travel to locations outside the office for legal proceedings or meetings. Therefore, possession of a valid California Class C driver's license and personal vehicle, or the ability to travel to various locations throughout the City in a timely manner, is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience representing public agencies, municipalities, or other governmental entities is highly desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

Independently manage all phases of civil litigation, including case evaluation, pleadings, written discovery, depositions, motion practice, settlement negotiations, and trial preparation.
Represent the City in state and federal courts, including jury and bench trials, and handle matters through appeal when necessary.
Analyze and apply federal and California law, the California Code of Civil Procedure, Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, and applicable local court rules.
Collaborate with City departments, outside experts, and other members of the City Attorney's Office to develop effective litigation strategies.
Provide practical legal advice to City staff as litigation issues arise and assist in minimizing legal risk.