Corporation Counsel

Wallingford, Town of•Wallingford, CT

About The Position

Performs highly responsible and complex professional legal work involving the administration of Town legal matters and representation of the Town in actions by or against it. Assists the Town Attorney in administering and supervising the Law Department and providing a wide variety of legal services. Provides legal consultation, representation, and assistance to Town departments, boards, commissions, and committees. Represents the Town in actions arising from Town business and in proceedings before courts and administrative agencies.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree from an accredited school of law.
Admission to the Connecticut State Bar, maintained throughout employment.
At least five years of experience practicing law, including at least three years practicing municipal law and at least three years of litigation experience.
Maintain valid admission to practice in federal courts during employment, or be qualified to obtain admission.
Devote full-time to the duties of the office and cease private law practice after six months from the date of appointment.
Possess and maintain a valid Connecticut motor vehicle operator’s license.
Thorough knowledge of municipal, state, federal, common, and constitutional law affecting Connecticut municipalities.
Thorough knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
Thorough knowledge of legal research methods, established precedents, and sources of legal reference relevant to Town activities.
Ability to prepare and try civil law cases in various courts.
Ability to analyze and prepare a wide range of legal documents.
Ability to communicate orally and in writing and to make well-reasoned, persuasive legal arguments.
Ability to supervise the work of others.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Town officials, boards, commissions, committees, legal professionals, and the public.

Responsibilities

Prepare briefs and pleadings and conduct legal research to develop the Town’s positions in litigation, administrative hearings, and regulatory proceedings.
Research legal questions and prepare opinions or provide oral advice as needed.
Prepare or review Town contracts, ordinances, regulations, and other documents as assigned by the Town Attorney.
Advise on litigation to protect the Town’s interests.
Attend meetings of boards and commissions and provide legal advice.
Supervise the clerical staff of the Office of the Town Attorney.
Act for the Town Attorney upon request or in the Town Attorney’s absence.
Assist in preparing the department budget.
Recommend proposed local laws and regulations, or revisions to them, to the Town Attorney.
Perform related work as required.