Description
Great opportunity to build wide-ranging experience. A true general practice: definitely not the same thing day in and day out. Recently admitted members and seasoned attorneys are both encouraged to apply.
The Assistant Law Director’s (City Attorney) is the full-time City attorney advising and representing the City of Norwood, under the direction of the elected Law Director. The position requires productive working relationships with elected and appointed officials (of both parties), employees, and boards. The ALD researches and provides legal opinions and guidance, prepares legislation for Council’s consideration, and the weekly prosecution of all cases brought in Norwood Mayor’s Court, plus transfers to Hamilton County Municipal Court and appeals. The ALD also represents the City in suits and court appeals from administrative decisions.
The ALD position involves addressing a wide range of legal issues, and the ability to quickly research and respond on unfamiliar topics. The ideal candidate will have some experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Litigation
- Zoning and Development Law
- Public Records and Open Meetings
- Legislative Interpretation and Drafting
- Ohio Municipal Law
- Criminal Procedure
- Administrative Law
- Public Contracting
Additional work function details:
1. Prosecutes all misdemeanor and traffic cases for the City; prepares cases for trial, including interviewing witnesses, victims, and law enforcement officers; drafts all pre-trial documents, including pleadings for sentencing, motion hearings and court trials; appears in court against the accused and presents evidence to judge or jury; examines and cross-examines witnesses to ascertain facts of the case and negotiates plea agreements when appropriate.
2. Reviews some investigations within the jurisdiction to determine if criminal charges are warranted and the nature of such charges.
3. Conducts research, drafts, and argues appellate pleadings and cases before the appellate court.
4. Prepares and reviews City contracts and City legislation, including ordinances and resolutions. Present and attend meetings as needed.
5. Provides legal advice to City elected officials, boards, department heads and employees in their City duties; serves as contact person and legal advisor to law enforcement officers.
6. Assists the Director of Law in the Operation of the Office of Director of Law.
7. Meets all job safety requirements and all applicable OSHA safety standards that pertain to essential functions.
8. Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance; may occasionally be required to work extra hours, evenings, weekends and/or holidays.
Requirements
Must be licensed to practice law in the State of Ohio. Admissions to the Southern District of Ohio and Sixth Circuit are preferred. Must be a member in good standing of the Bar of the State of Ohio. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and a Juris Doctorate or equivalent degree from an accredited law school. Must possess a valid driver’s license and must remain insurable under the City’s vehicle insurance plan. Sone litigation experience (criminal and/or civil) preferred.
