City Solicitor Third Associate

City of Springfield•C151-Law, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for the application of professional skills and knowledge in the performance of a wide variety of legal duties as an associate to the municipal City Solicitor. Work is performed with professional independence in accordance with accepted legal practices adapted to municipal requirements under administrative direction of the City Solicitor who reviews work through reports and conferences. Supervision may be exercised over office personnel.

Requirements

Juris doctorate degree.
Zero to four years of experience in professional legal work, including experience in legal research and preparation and trial of cases.
Knowledge of common and statutory law, municipal ordinances established legal precedents, and sources of legal reference.
Knowledge of the legal bases of the structure and function of municipal government.
Knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, materials of legal research and investigation.
Knowledge of legal pleadings and practices, and effective techniques of presenting cases in court.
Knowledge of judicial procedures and the rules of evidence including trial experience in state and federal courts.
Ability to analyze and prepare legal documents and instruments.
Ability to perform independent research and to interpret laws and precedents.
Ability to present evidence and other legal material effectively in written or oral form.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, municipal officials, court officials, and the general public.

Responsibilities

Acts for the City Solicitor in his/her absence or as delegated; provides continuity and legal assistance in the affairs of the office of the City Solicitor.
Provides legal advice, counsel and opinions for the Mayor, City Council, boards, commissions, committees, officials, office heads, and as assigned by the City Solicitor.
Studies statutes, ordinances, precedents, bylaws, rules and regulations and carries on related legal research.
Prepares ordinances, orders, resolutions, contracts, leases, deeds, obligations, and other legal instruments and documents.
Prepares briefs and pleadings, and presents and argues in court, actions, suits and proceedings brought by or against the City, municipal offices, or a City official in his/her official capacity.
Appears before the legislature, its committees, and various state bodies of quasi-judicial nature, to represent the City’s interests.
Interviews witnesses, confers with parties, attorneys, and municipal officials, and otherwise investigates suits against the City; negotiates out-of-court settlements.
Attends meetings and hearings of various municipal boards and commissions to provide legal advice and counsel.
Supervises the work of office clerical personnel.
Performs related work as required.