Description

This salaried, full-time position is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the City Commission. The position is structured with flexible hours and serves as the City’s chief legal advisor.  It is expected that the attorney who fills this full-time, exempt position will provide a minimum of 40-hours each week dedicated to legal services to the City Commission.  If the attorney provides legal services to other entities or persons, it must not create a conflict of interest to or for the city and must be approved in advance by the City Commission. The City Attorney provides legal services to the Commission, its various boards and commissions as established by the City Commission, and the city manager.

Requirements

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Provides general legal counsel for prosecution of eminent domain proceedings and other civil suits, actions, and proceedings as authorized by the City Commission. 
Attends public meetings for the Commission and various boards, committees, and Commissions as directed by the City Commission.
Provides legal defense counsel, if appropriate and warranted, in suits and actions brought against the city, except in cases where insurance or special legal counsel is engaged.
Provides written legal opinions on matters relating to municipal government.
Prepares, reviews, and approves as to form and sufficiency city ordinances, resolutions, deeds, leases, interlocal agreements, and contracts.
Provides legal guidance, interpretation, and training on Florida Sunshine Law, Public Records Law, Ethics, and quasi-judicial procedures.
Conducts quasi-judicial hearings as appropriate and required by law.
Monitors and informs the City Commission of legislation and court decisions that may impact municipal operations and advises City leadership accordingly.
Performs other legal-related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge and understanding of judicial procedures.
Knowledge and understanding of municipal governments, city ordinances, codes, regulations, policies, practices and accepted interpretation of same.
Knowledge of Florida Statutes and Constitutional law.
Ability to conduct legal research and present complex and technical information in an understandable manner.
Ability to analyze, appraise, and organize facts, evidence, and precedents related to cases and situations.
Ability to litigate cases in court.
Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees, City officials, contractors, professionals, attorneys, court officials, and the general public.
Skill in the use of computers and various software programs, particularly those that assist with the practice of law.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed Attorney in good standing with the Florida Bar. 
At least five (5) years professional experience as an attorney working for a state, county, or local government.