Assistant City Attorney

Salary: $108,823.62 - $133,308.78 annually

Location: Royal Oak City Hall

Job type: Full-time

Description

An Assistant City Attorney performs two primary functions under the general supervision of the City Attorney. First, the Assistant City Attorney acts as legal counsel to members of the City Commission and department heads, and various boards and commissions, prepares written opinions, and performs other highly responsible related legal tasks. Second, the Assistant City Attorney prepares and tries cases in district court, appellate, and other courts. The Assistant City Attorney is expected to exercise independent judgment in the pursuit of their duties. Work is reviewed through observation of results achieved.

Responsibilities

• Provide quality legal services to departments, boards, committees, and commissions and perform other duties as assigned by the City Attorney.
• Prepare, review, track, and analyze contracts, agreements, ordinances, legal memoranda, correspondence, resolutions, policies, and other legal documents.
• Prepare legal opinions on matters referred by the City Commission, City Manager, City Attorney, and department heads.
• Conduct legal research on municipal issues including the Michigan Open Meetings Act, Freedom of Information Act, governmental immunity, property taxation, planning and zoning, real estate, federal and state constitutional issues, and municipal finance; document results and findings; present legal advice and information and recommendations.
• Represent the City in negotiating legal issues; assure that legal issues are resolved within City policy guidelines and applicable law; assure effective communication of issues with the City Attorney, City Manager, City Commission, and department heads.
• Prosecute City ordinance violations, including jury trials, bench trials, and formal hearings in 44th District Court, as well as any related appeals.
• Represent the Office of City Attorney and perform other duties as assigned by the City Attorney.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and must be an active member in good standing with the state bar of Michigan or eligible to become a member of the state bar of Michigan upon hiring.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible experience as an Attorney; three or more years of municipal law experience is preferred.
• Some present or past prosecutorial or criminal defense experience is preferred.
• Admission to the Bar in the State of Michigan.
• Valid motor vehicle operator's permit.

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of state and federal statutes as applicable to civil and/or municipal law.
• Comprehensive training in and knowledge of the theory and practice of local government, particularly in Home Rule Cities, and an interest in and knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of public officials and of citizens.
• A high order of ability to analyze and appraise facts, evidence, and precedents and to apply legal principles to complex legal issues.
• Ability to present accurate statements of fact, law, and arguments clearly and logically in writing and orally under formal judicial procedure or before a public body.
• Ability to form and maintain good working relations with department heads, public officials, coworkers, and the public.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, prescription, vision, and dental coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Long and short-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance for employees and dependents.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Access to a health and wellness center.
• Robust retirement plan with both employee and employer contributions.