Assistant City Attorney

City of Spokane•City of Spokane, WA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant City Attorney works in the City Attorney’s Office, which advises and represents Spokane city elected and appointed officials, departments, employees, boards, committees, task forces, and commissions on civil legal matters. The position plays an integral role in litigation involving the City and works independently, subject to guidance from the City Attorney or Senior Attorneys. The attorney may supervise junior attorneys and support staff on specific projects or areas of expertise. The role provides legal research, opinions, drafting, contract support, advice to City bodies, litigation, claim negotiations, and legal guidance on changes in law. Work is conducted primarily in an office, with frequent meeting attendance, some irregular hours, and potentially out-of-town travel. The position requires verbal communication in person and by telephone, and use of a computer terminal involving repetitive arm-hand movements.

Requirements

Demonstrated expertise in specific areas of municipal law.
Ability to make difficult and complex decisions quickly.
Ability to express legal concepts clearly and concisely to the City Council, Mayor, City officials and staff, and the general public.
Ability to prepare legal analyses and recommendations.
Ability to analyze and understand complex problems and identify and implement solutions.
Ability to present matters clearly and persuasively before public bodies, arbitrators, management, and employee groups.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Ability to use a personal computer and software necessary to perform the duties effectively.
Ability to foster and maintain effective professional relationships with City officials and staff, colleagues, and the public.
Good moral character and integrity in matters pertaining to professional responsibilities.
Ability to perform courtroom work, including trial preparation and presentation.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of municipal law and the practices and procedures of City government is helpful.

Responsibilities

Conduct independent legal research and render oral and written opinions on substantive, procedural, and administrative issues for City departments, boards, and commissions.
Draft ordinances, regulations, major contracts, proposals for state legislation, and other legal documents.
Draft, review, and assist in administering City contracts and other procurement.
Attend meetings of City boards and commissions as a legal advisor to City officials.
Prepare and conduct litigation before federal, state, and local courts, administrative agencies, and other adjudicative bodies.
Negotiate and recommend settlement of claims filed against the City.
Analyze changes in state and federal laws and court decisions, and advise City departments on compliance with new requirements.
Provide legal assistance and guidance to other attorneys within a specific area of expertise.
Conduct negotiations on behalf of City administrative staff, boards, and commissions.
Participate as an active member in a non-legal role in City administrative and management projects.
Organize and manage own work and supervise support staff and junior attorneys.
Perform courtroom work, emphasizing preparation and presentation in trials.