Assistant City Attorney I

Job Overview

Position Summary

 

GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES: Under direction from the City Attorney, the Assistant City Attorney I serves as legal representation for the City of Dubuque in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, drafts legal documents, and manages and advises on legal transactions. The position prosecutes violations of the Municipal Code; provides legal advice to City officials, departments, and boards; represents the City in administrative and court proceedings; and performs legal duties with limited supervision, including matters referred by the City Council. The ideal candidate follows a management philosophy that is input-oriented and values problem-solving and the development of partnerships, and embodies a spirit of service, integrity, responsibility, innovation, and teamwork.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: Under the supervision and direction of the City Attorney, the Assistant City Attorney I conducts legal activities for the City, providing legal services to the City Manager, City Council, and boards and commissions. The position may act as chief spokesperson on behalf of departments, investigate and handle claims, and represent the City in court, administrative hearings, and negotiations.

 

Job Duties

 

Job Duties

• Advise and support City staff during code enforcement, development, real estate, zoning, and employment matters.
• Prosecute municipal infractions and criminal offenses (from traffic citations up to simple misdemeanors), including preparation for trial and appeals.
• Civil rights investigations under Title 8 of the City of Dubuque Code of Ordinances on behalf of the Human Rights Commission.
• Conduct training within the community on civil rights topics covered by Title 8 of the City of Dubuque Code of Ordinances.
• Conduct training for City departments on relevant legal topics and best practices.
• Work with staff to respond to open records requests and respond to public inquiries.
• Provide legal advice and counsel to the City Council, departments, boards, and commissions on matters related to City business.
• Research laws, legal codes, court decisions, and precedents; prepare memoranda and legal recommendations.
• Draft ordinances, resolutions, contracts, legal opinions, and other legal documents.
• Assist with interpretation and enforcement of federal, state, and local laws, and assist departments with compliance.
• Represent the City in administrative hearings and civil litigation proceedings.
• Assist with collective bargaining, grievance processes, and Civil Service Commission hearings.
• Attend and present at City Council meetings, board meetings, and internal/external stakeholder meetings as requested.
• Work under the supervision of the City Attorney or assigned senior attorney.
• Perform related legal duties, special projects, and other assignments as required by the City Attorney.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Law and Government: Knowledge of municipal, administrative, and civil law, legal codes, court procedures, contracts, and real estate law.
• Legal Practice: Ability to prepare and prosecute cases, conduct effective legal research, and draft accurate legal documents.
• Communication: Skilled in written and oral legal communication, negotiation, and presentation to varied audiences.
• Critical Thinking: Strong analytical abilities to interpret laws, evaluate cases, and advise on legal options.
• Technology: Proficiency in electronic legal research, case management systems, and office software.
• Judgment: Ability to make sound legal decisions independently and prioritize a dynamic workload.
• Collaboration: Effective in working across departments, building relationships, and serving the public with professionalism.

 

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Iowa Supreme Court or ability to obtain by date of appointment.

• Demonstrated experience in the practice of law or a law-related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional experience advising municipal or government entities.
• 0–5 years of legal experience in employment law, civil rights, torts, land use, or contract law.

 

Supplemental Information

 

Residency Requirement:
Employee shall establish their principal place of residence within fifty (50) miles of their place of employment as soon as practicable after appointment, but no later than two years from date of hire.

SUPERVISORY STATUS: None

FLSA STATUS: Exempt