ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY

General Responsibilities:

This is responsible professional legal work in the City Attorney’s Office. Employees may be assigned diverse legal activities including the prosecution of municipal ordinance violations, civil litigation and/or general law practice (consistent with the needs of the organization). This class encompasses all represented/non-managerial positions engaged in professional legal work within the City Attorney’s Office. Work is performed with varying degrees of independence as employees gain necessary proficiencies.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities:

Prosecute a wide variety of traffic and general ordinance violations (e.g., building, fire and health codes, disorderly conduct, underage drinking, , etc.) and small claims actions. Confer with concerned parties and witnesses. Negotiate plea agreements. Prepare and present pleadings, briefs, and other court papers in connection with civil trial litigation. Prepare and present the City’s case at trial. Argue cases in court proceedings. Perform related legal research. File and respond to appeals as appropriate. Maintain case files.

Provide ongoing (and Ad Hoc) legal support to City boards, commission and agencies as assigned (e.g., Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Equal Opportunities Commission, etc.). Advise City departments on legal obligations and litigation, to include specific claims and liabilities. Respond to citizen or press inquiries, as directed.

Plan and conduct civil litigation on the City’s behalf. Represent the City before judicial or quasi-judicial bodies involving complex issues and significant liabilities to the City.

Draft ordinances, resolutions, contracts, conveyances, reports and opinions, and other legal documents as required. Participate in the full spectrum of City Attorney’s office functions as required. Provide leadership and consultation to staff.

Perform all other professional legal work as may be required.

Perform related work as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledges, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of legal principles and their application within municipal corporations. Knowledge of statutes and laws of Wisconsin and judicial interpretation and precedent. Knowledge of related municipal laws and ordinances. Ability to prepare legal briefs, opinions and pleadings. Ability to carry out independent research on legal issues. Ability to present legal matters logically, clearly and concisely in accepted form. Knowledge of judicial and administrative procedures and rules of evidence. Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to represent City interests in negotiations. Ability to maintain adequate attendance.

*Note: These qualifications are established for entry level positions, with enhanced expertise required of senior employees.

Training and Experience:

Graduation from an accredited law school. Other combinations of training and/or experience which can be demonstrated to result in the possession of the knowledges, skills and abilities necessary to perform the duties of this position will also be considered.

Necessary Special Qualifications:

Admission to the bar in the State of Wisconsin.

09/2006