City Attorney

City of Hopewell, VA - Hopewell, VA

Full-time - Senior

Hopewell, VA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

Under the appointment of City Council, the City Attorney performs work of considerable difficulty in protecting the legal interests of the City, and serves as the chief legal advisor to Council and City Manager. As designated by Council, the City Attorney also serves as the chief legal advisor to other departments, boards, commissions and agencies of the City in all matters affecting the interests of the City. City residency is required within mutually agreed upon terms at time of appointment.

Responsibilities

• Provides oral and written legal opinions and advice on complex matters to City Council, City administration, and City departments on a daily basis.
• Attends a variety of meetings - City Council, Boards, Commissions, Committees, Authorities, etc.
• Represents the City in complex legal matters. Prepares and tries cases, including appeals to state and federal courts; processes and litigates claims against the City; prosecutes suits, actions and proceedings for and on behalf of the City.
• Prepares, reviews and/or approves various complex legal documents on behalf of the City - contracts, ordinances, resolutions, bonds, bids, deeds, leases, policies, etc. Provides explanations and answers when necessary.
• Researches, interprets and applies laws, court decisions, and other legal authority in the preparation of opinions, advice and briefs.
• Advises on the purchase, sale, exchange and/or leasing of properties.
• Reviews procurement matters to ensure compliance.
• Prepares and reviews legislation for General Assembly sessions. Presents to the General Assembly as necessary.
• Supervises and reviews codifications of City Code.
• Manages, supervises and reviews the work of support staff, as well as managing the department budget, support contracts, etc.
• Membership and active engagement in local government organizations and attendance of continuing education seminars specializing in local government.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and at least five (5) years of progressive experience practicing law, preferably municipal law; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Current licensure by the Virginia State Bar, qualified to practice in federal and state courts, and the ability to maintain membership as a condition of continued employment.

Nice-to-haves

• Managerial experience preferred