Senior Attorney - Civil Rights Unit

About the role

The City of Philadelphia Law Department serves as general counsel to the entire City government. The Litigation Group includes the Affirmative & General Litigations Unit, Civil Rights Unit, Tort Litigation Unit, Code Enforcement Unit, Labor & Employment Unit and Appeals Unit. The Civil Rights Unit represents the City of Philadelphia and its employees in federal and state court.

Responsibilities

• Advise and represent the City of Philadelphia and its employees, before judges and juries in both state and federal court.
• Present evidence to defend clients or impeach plaintiffs in tort litigation.
• Communicate with clients, colleagues, judges and others involved in the case.
• Conduct research and analysis of legal problems.
• Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals, and government agencies.
• Prepare and file legal documents, such as preliminary objections, answers and dispositive motions.
• Analyze probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents.
• Negotiate settlements.
• Perform administrative and management functions related to the practice of law.

Requirements

This is a senior level position, with nine (9) plus years of legal experience practicing complex litigation in state and/or federal court, and first chair jury trial experience required. Candidates must have a law degree from an ABA accredited law school and must either be a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204).

Qualifications

• Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency policies and process.
• Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.
• Ability to find what applicable laws and regulations apply to a specific matter.
• Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
• Must be able to clearly present and explain their case to arbitrators, mediators, opposing parties, judges, or juries and listen, answer questions, present to large groups and high-level officials and employ diplomacy in challenging situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work on teams and collaborate with colleagues and clients.
• Excellent research and writing skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to identify and analyze legal issues within complex fact patterns.

Skills

None specified in the job description.

Benefits

Includes transportation benefits through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program, parental leave, comprehensive health coverage, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, generous retirement savings options, and the opportunity to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Employees also have access to tuition discounts and scholarships through partnerships with various colleges and universities.

Pay

$121,875 to $147,534 - Commensurate with education and experience.

Schedule

Fully onsite with regular on-site presence required.