City Attorney

This position directs the provision of legal services to the Mayor, City Council, department directors, and support staff.

• Graduation from an accredited school of law.
• Five years of general practice experience or two years of Municipal or County Government Law Experience is preferred.
• Experience sufficient to thoroughly understand the diverse objectives and functions of the subunits in the division/department in order to direct and coordinate work within the division/department, usually interpreted to require three to five years of related experience.
• Current membership in the State Bar of Alabama.
• Eventual residency in Decatur, Alabama
• Knowledge of local, state and federal law. 
• Knowledge of legal research principles. 
• Knowledge of civil litigation and liability claims. 
• Knowledge of relevant federal, state and city laws, regulations, and ordinances. 
• Knowledge of the rules of courtroom procedure and the rules of evidence. 
• Knowledge of departmental functions, programs and services. 
• Knowledge of computers and job related software programs. 
• Skill in producing persuasive legal arguments. 
• Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions. 
• Skill in training and supervising personnel. 
• Skill in oral and written communication.

Guidelines

• Local, state and federal rules, statutes, codes, ordinances and regulations. These guidelines require judgment, selection and interpretation in application. This position develops department guidelines.

Complexity/Scope of Work

• The work consists of varied legal, management and supervisory duties. The variety and volume of issues to be managed contributes to the complexity of the position.
• The purpose of this position is to direct the provision of legal services to the City of Decatur. Success in this position contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of a variety of city operations.

Contacts

• Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, elected and appointed officials, law enforcement personnel, attorneys, insurance agents and adjusters, business owners, and members of the general public.
• Contacts are typically to provide services; to give or exchange information; to resolve problems; to motivate or influence persons; or to justify, defend or negotiate matters.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee occasionally lifts light and heavy objects and distinguishes between shades of color.
• The work is typically performed in an office.

Supervisory and Management Responsibility

• This position has direct supervision over Assistant City Attorney, City Prosecutor, and Legal Assistant.