Assistant City Solicitor - Civil Rights Unit
About the Role
The City of Philadelphia Law Department serves as general counsel to the entire City government, providing legal advice to all City officials, employees, departments, agencies, boards, and commissions. The Civil Rights Unit within the Litigation Group represents the City and its employees in federal and state court, handling lawsuits alleging constitutional rights violations or intentional torts. This entry-level position offers the opportunity to manage cases from start to finish, including serving as first chair at trial. The role involves collaboration with client departments such as the Philadelphia Police Department, Department of Prisons, and Department of Licenses and Inspections to provide legal counsel and policy advice.
Responsibilities
- Try federal and state court cases before a jury or judge.
- Represent the City and employees at arbitrations.
- Take and defend depositions.
- Attend court conferences and hearings.
- Draft pleadings, motions, and briefs.
- Research and analyze complex legal issues.
- Participate in policy analyses and develop proposed modifications based on litigation lessons.
- Provide legal counsel to City departments on civil rights implications.
Requirements
- Law degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Membership in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar or eligibility for admission by reciprocity (Pa.B.A.R. 204).
- Continued employment contingent upon admission to the Pennsylvania Bar within six months of hire.
- One year or more of relevant legal experience preferred (e.g., civil litigation, federal clerkship).
- Strong academic credentials, communication, analytical, and writing skills.
- Comfort with public speaking and oral advocacy; experience trying cases is preferred.
Skills
- Knowledge of applicable laws, legal codes, court procedures, and government regulations.
- Ability to analyze large amounts of information and determine relevant facts.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for complex legal issues.
- Excellent writing, case management, negotiating, and trial skills.
- Proficiency with computer programs such as PowerPoint and MS Office.
- Excellent judgment and critical thinking in high-pressure situations.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in teams.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Ability to foster a collegial, inclusive, and professional work environment.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
- 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Generous retirement savings options.
- Unlimited free public transportation via SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
- Tuition discounts and scholarships (10% to 40%) through partnerships with local colleges and universities, extending to spouses and dependents in some cases.
- Wellness program with eligibility for discounted medical plans.
Pay
Salary range: $83,945 to $94,686.
Schedule
This is a fully onsite position. Employees are expected to report in person five days per week.
Candidates must become residents of the City of Philadelphia within six months of hire.