Staff Attorney

City of Fort Wayne•Fort Wayne, IN

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Fort Wayne is seeking an attorney to serve as Staff Attorney for the Metropolitan Human Relations Commission. This role involves protecting civil rights and ensuring fair treatment in cases of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. The position offers a consistent weekday schedule with Fridays ending at noon, providing an opportunity for meaningful work that makes a difference in the community. The Staff Attorney will provide legal counsel, guide case investigations and resolutions, and represent the Commission in various legal settings. This role requires sound judgment, strategic thinking, and a commitment to public service, with the goal of building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school
Active license to practice law in Indiana
Some experience in civil rights investigation, prosecution, administrative law, or legal research
Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local civil rights and anti-discrimination laws
Strong legal research, writing, litigation, and negotiation skills
Ability to apply legal principles to complex and sensitive matters
Judgment, independence, and professionalism to lead challenging conversations and work respectfully with people representing different perspectives

Nice To Haves

Three years of experience as a practicing attorney performing high-level legal work
Knowledge of applicable employment, fair housing, disability rights, and municipal civil rights laws
Ability to prepare motions, briefs, subpoenas, settlement agreements, and other legal documents
Qualification to practice before county and municipal courts in Indiana

Responsibilities

Serve as the Commission's legal counsel and representative, overseeing legal matters involving discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations.
Guide cases from investigation through resolution while supporting effective, fair, and legally sound decision-making, in collaboration with the Executive Director, investigators, and Commissioners.
Lead civil rights enforcement by managing cases through fact-finding, discovery, settlement negotiations, administrative hearings, appeals, and litigation.
Provide strategic legal counsel to the Executive Director, staff, and Commissioners on civil rights laws, complex legal matters, agency procedures, and public access requirements.
Direct and prioritize investigators' work, assess evidence, and develop legal approaches that support thorough investigations and timely resolution.
Represent the Commission by preparing legal documents and presenting matters before the Commission, courts, Common Council, and other appropriate bodies.
Strengthen community understanding by delivering educational presentations, supporting staff and Commissioner training, and helping businesses, organizations, and residents understand their rights and responsibilities.