City Attorney

City of Gastonia, NC • Gastonia, NC

375d • $195,000 - $235,000

About The Position

Performs complex professional and administrative work in managing the legal affairs of the City; does related work as required. Position appointed by Council and work is performed under the supervision of the Council. Departmental supervision is exercised over all personnel within the department.

Requirements

• Graduation from a law school of recognized standing
• Extensive experience as a practicing attorney including considerable experience in the practice of municipal law
• Licensed to practice law in the State of North Carolina
• Valid North Carolina driver's license

Responsibilities

• Manages the legal affairs of the City
• Attends meetings of the City Council, City Boards, and Commissions and renders immediate legal advice when necessary
• Serves as legal counsel to the City Council, City Manager, City Boards and Commissions, and other Officials of the City
• Renders legal advice to Department Heads
• Coordinates City legal matters with outside consulting Attorneys as needed
• Serves as legislative liaison for the City with state and federal governments
• Drafts or supervises the drafting of contracts, deeds, leases, releases, franchises, easements, legal memoranda and briefs, and other legal documents on behalf of the City
• Drafts or supervises the drafting of ordinances and resolutions, explains the foregoing to the Council, and answers questions relating thereto
• Identifies potential legal issues and claims and engages in efforts required to resolve conflicts when possible
• Prepares and responds to claims against the City; research case law and court rulings; determines merits of claims; analyzes pertinent statutory and case law, administrative and procedural rules; develops case strategy and legal arguments
• Represents the City in legal matters
• Decides major legal questions in litigation, claims, leases, contracts, land titles, and related legal matters
• Supervises Legal Department staff; prepares the departmental budget and oversees expenditures
• Prepares and supervises the preparation of formal legal opinions upon request of Council Members and the Administration
• Assists the City Clerk with the maintenance of the City Code of ordinances
• Proficiency with computers including legal and office software

Benefits

• The hiring range for this position is $195,000-$235,000 based on qualifications and determined by Mayor and City Council

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree