Deputy City Attorney - Litigation

City of Portland • 1221 SW 4th Ave, OR

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Portland City Attorney’s Office is hiring a Deputy City Attorney to defend the City in tort matters in state and federal courts. The attorney will handle all phases of litigation, including drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs; conducting discovery; appearing in court; negotiating settlements; and trying cases. The position requires strong written and oral advocacy, time and case management skills, the ability to manage a challenging caseload, and flexibility to work independently and collaboratively.

This is a full-time, at-will position, exempt from Civil Service and serving at the discretion of the hiring authority. The regular schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; an alternate schedule may be available. The work location is 1221 SW 4th Ave, Portland, Oregon. The classification was recently recognized as represented by AFSCME-189, with terms and conditions currently under negotiation. Starting pay is determined based on directly related and equivalent experience, consistent with the Oregon Equal Pay Act.

Requirements

• At least four years of experience as an attorney, including state and/or federal court civil litigation experience.
• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Membership in good standing with the Oregon State Bar, or membership in good standing in another jurisdiction’s bar with the ability to obtain Oregon State Bar membership.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent writing ability.
• Proficiency in time and case management.

Nice To Haves

• Prior public entity experience, including police liability, wrongful death, and constitutional claims litigation.

Responsibilities

• Defend the City in tort matters in state and federal courts.
• Manage all phases of litigation, including drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Conduct all aspects of discovery.
• Appear in court.
• Negotiate settlements.
• Handle trial work.
• Manage a challenging caseload and work both independently and as a team member.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree