Phoenix, City of: Chief Counsel - Law Department

Posted: August 14, 2026 | Closing: August 27, 2026 11:59 PM

About the role

The Chief Counsel serves as the principal legal advisor to the City Council, City Manager, and executive leadership team on a wide range of municipal legal matters. This position oversees the Law Department, which provides legal services to all City departments, boards, and commissions. The Chief Counsel represents the City in complex litigation, negotiations, and transactions, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and local laws.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel to the City Council, City Manager, and executive leadership on municipal legal issues, including governance, policy development, and intergovernmental relations.
• Oversee and direct the work of the Law Department, including attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, ensuring the delivery of high-quality legal services to all City departments.
• Represent the City in litigation, administrative proceedings, and negotiations, including complex civil litigation, labor and employment matters, and regulatory compliance issues.
• Advise on and draft ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and other legal documents to ensure compliance with applicable laws and City policies.
• Manage outside counsel and legal consultants, including the selection, retention, and oversight of external legal services.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Law Department.
• Serve as a key member of the City’s executive leadership team, participating in strategic planning and decision-making processes.
• Ensure ethical and professional standards are maintained in all legal matters handled by the Law Department.
• Collaborate with other City departments to identify and mitigate legal risks and promote best practices in municipal governance.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in the State Bar of Arizona or eligibility for admission by motion.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible legal experience, with at least five (5) years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Extensive experience in municipal law, including knowledge of Arizona local government law, public finance, land use, and regulatory compliance.
• Demonstrated experience in litigation, including trial experience, and the ability to manage complex legal disputes.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with a proven ability to lead and develop a team of legal professionals.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to provide clear and concise legal advice to non-legal stakeholders.
• Commitment to public service and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, politically sensitive environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in or with local government, including familiarity with City operations, policies, and procedures.
• Experience in labor and employment law, including collective bargaining and employment litigation.
• Knowledge of public finance, including bond issuance, taxation, and budgeting.
• Experience with alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration.
• Certification in municipal law or related specialty is a plus.