Description:

Description:
Closing Date: Continuous, the application filing may close any time after ten days from the issue date of this job announcement if sufficient qualified applications have been received. Postmarks are not acceptable; therefore, it is important to submit your application as soon as possible. First application review on June 3, 2026.

Deputy City Attorney I & II: Under general direction, performs legal work involving a wide range of municipal and criminal law topics; handles routine professional legal tasks; attends meetings of various Boards and Commissions in an advisory capacity; performs related work as required.

Representative Duties:
The following typical tasks and responsibilities are representative of this class. They are descriptive, not limiting. Deputy City Attorney I: Conducts legal research as needed; Prepares and prosecutes criminal matters; Prepares, assists, and handles civil litigation cases; Prepares or assists in administrative hearings and represents the City in such hearings; Reviews and interprets federal, state, county and city statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, court decisions, laws, and other legal authority;

Deputy City Attorney II: In addition to above, Represents the City administrative hearings before City Boards and Commissions and federal agencies; Prosecutes litigation where the City is the Plaintiff; Assists other attorneys in all phases of legal work

For a full job description: Deputy City Attorney I (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/bakersfield/classspecs/newprint/23642), Deputy City Attorney II (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/bakersfield/classspecs/newprint/23643) & Position Brochure (https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/ca-bakersfield/663471b4-7701-4506-a7a5-c0563f38ab18)

Minimum Qualifications:
Applications will be accepted only from those applicants who clearly demonstrate on the COMPLETED application, supplemental questionnaire, and resume that they meet the below requirements:
  • Graduated from an accredited American Bar Association law school with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
  • Minimum of two (2) years' experience in the practice of law, preferably with a governmental agency; AND demonstration of civil litigation experience, which includes the representation of either a plaintiff or defendant throughout a civil lawsuit process.
  • Substantial experience in the representation of municipal clients may be substituted for lack of experience in civil litigation
  • Active member of the California State Bar Association
  • Possession of a valid California Class "C" driver's license.
  • Must be able to pass a police background

Deputy City Attorney II:

  • In addition to the above, must have an additional two (2) years' experience in the practice of law, preferably in a municipal setting and substantial civil litigation.
  • Desirable: Ties to Kern County, strong written and oral communication skills, and working well under pressure.

Examination (Weighted: 100%)
(Tentative)
An appraisal will be made of the applicant's experience, education, training, certification, knowledge, skills, abilities, and personal qualifications for the position. A minimum passing score of 70% is required.

Note: Admission to the Examination may be limited to those applicants who demonstrate the best combination of qualifications. Applicants possessing the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed admittance to the Examination. Employment applications must be properly completed in accordance with instructions on face of application form. All pertinent information needed to determine that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications must be shown on the application, resume, and supplemental questionnaire; otherwise, the application may be rejected. NOTE: POSTMARKS will not be accepted Resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu of COMPLETED application.