Description:

Description:
The Associate Corporation Counsel (litigation) is a senior-level legal position responsible for providing legal representation and counsel to the City under the direction of the Corporation Counsel. This position focuses primarily on litigated matters in the City's Administrative Court and in Circuit Court. The role requires strong litigation skills, sound judgment, and the ability to manage a diverse caseload involving municipal law issues. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of seven (7) years' experience with a strong understanding of civil and administrative law and be able to handle complex legal issues while ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Examples of Duties:
This list may not include all tasks and/or knowledge which may be expected of the employee, nor does it cover all specific duties which may be required. Other duties may be assigned.

Civil Litigation:
Represent the City in administrative and state court proceedings related to the prosecution of code violations, including zoning, building code, and safety violations.
Appear in state court and local administrative hearings to prosecute cases of non-compliance with City ordinances, including enforcement actions to remedy violations and secure compliance.
Handle cases of payment delinquencies, including unpaid taxes, fees, and fines, and represent the City in efforts to collect outstanding payments, including filing claims, initiating legal actions, and pursuing judgment enforcement.
Represent the City in other civil litigation matters that may include drafting pleadings, managing discovery, and other civil litigation-related tasks.
Work closely with City departments to ensure effective enforcement of municipal code compliance and the collection of delinquent payments.
Legal Counsel & Representation:
Provide expert legal advice to city departments, officials, and agencies on a variety of matters, including municipal law, contracts, real estate, zoning, labor and employment law, public finance, and civil rights.
Represent the City in legal proceedings, including court appearances, hearings, arbitrations, and mediations.
Prepare legal opinions, memoranda, and other documents to advise city officials and departments on legal matters.
Employment Investigations:
This position may, under the supervision of an experienced labor and employment attorney, be asked to assist, lead and/or conduct internal investigations of employment-related issues, including allegations of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and violations of City policies.
Prepare detailed investigative reports, providing recommendations for action based on findings.
Advise City departments on the appropriate course of action following investigation outcomes, including disciplinary measures or corrective actions.
Public Policy & Advocacy:
Advise on the legal implications of proposed public policies and initiatives.
Collaborate with other City departments, governmental agencies, and community organizations on legal and policy issues.
Boards, Commissions, and other Organizations.
Serve as legal counsel for various boards and commissions.
Speaks before various civic, professional and legislative groups.

Typical Qualifications:
General Skill Levels:

Considerable knowledge of the principles and procedures of civil, municipal, and/or business law.
Considerable knowledge of the principal methods, materials and practices of legal research and investigation.
Considerable knowledge of judicial procedure and rules of evidence.
Considerable knowledge of local ordinances, state and federal laws and constitutional provisions affecting municipal operations and thorough knowledge of City operations, policies and procedures, or a demonstrated ability to acquire this knowledge.
Knowledge of current computer and/or electronic systems, techniques and requirements being utilized for specific applications in the department.
Ability to analyze, appraise and organize facts, evidence, and precedents and to present such material effectively in writing and verbally.
Ability to present and argue cases in court with skill in publicly speaking.
Ability to manage functions, resolve conflict and work harmoniously with department heads, officials, employees, outside professionals and the general public.
Ability to function with minimal direction and oversight, with a high degree of self-motivation.
Ability to handle confidential material on a routine basis in an atmosphere of loyalty and trust.
Ability to adapt to changing situations and priorities.
Ability to maintain clerical records consistent with department procedures and retention schedule.

Education/Experience:
Required:Graduation from a recognized school of law with experience in litigation is a must. Experience in one or more of administrative, municipal, employment law is desired but not required. Any equivalent combination of training and experience that would provide the above knowledge, abilities and skills may also be acceptable.

Certificate or Licenses:
Required:Admission to the Bar of the State of Illinois required.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.