Assistant City Solicitor III

About the role

Under the direction of the City Solicitor, this position performs professional legal work related to the Worcester Public Schools, including consultation, advice, and counsel on matters involving the schools, its employees, and the School Committee. Responsibilities include rendering legal opinions, responding to public records requests and subpoenas, negotiating and drafting legal documents such as contracts and licenses, and representing the city/schools in pre-litigation claims and litigation matters.

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and counsel on matters relating to the Worcester Public Schools, its employees, and the School Committee.
• Render legal opinions and respond to public records requests and subpoenas.
• Negotiate and draft legal documents, including contracts, licenses, and software agreements.
• Represent the city/schools in pre-litigation claims and litigation matters involving the schools and/or its employees.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• Five (5) years of experience practicing as an attorney in municipal law or contract law.
• Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Member of the Massachusetts Bar in good standing.
• Valid Driver’s License and access to reliable transportation.
• Thorough knowledge of City codes, City Charter, and ordinances.
• Thorough knowledge of state and federal constitutional and statutory provisions relating to municipalities and public schools.
• Thorough knowledge of state and federal rules of civil and appellate procedure and rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of the organization, functions, and legal limitations of public school departments.
• Knowledge of the principles of civil and municipal law.
• Ability to analyze, appraise, and organize facts, evidence, and precedents, and present them effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to determine alternative approaches to problems and recommend balanced legal and administrative solutions.
• Ability to present and argue cases in court, including handling unanticipated trial problems.
• Ability to effectively present appellate cases.
• Judgment in rendering legal advice.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with departments, boards, employees, court officials, public officials, and the general public.
• Regular onsite attendance is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in civil litigation.
• Experience in municipal law.
• Experience in education law.
• Seven (7) years of experience practicing as an attorney in municipal law or contract law.