Nature of Work
The purpose of this job is to provide full range of legal services on issues and projects of importance to the City. Depending on assigned area(s), this job may involve litigation, municipal affairs and/or ordinance enforcement. This position will have increased autonomy, depth of knowledge, and gaining of special areas of expertise from that of Assistant City Attorney I. This position will also provide support and guidance of Assistant City Attorney I in every day duties and responsibilities.
Other Information
The current opening in the Department of Law involves work in municipal affairs.
MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS
- Provides legal services, with significant support and supervision, to the Mayor, the City Manager, the City Commission, and all departments within the City of Grand Rapids on a broad range of municipal topics, including but not limited to: planning & zoning, real estate, contract drafting and negotiation, ordinance drafting, Home Rule City Act, governmental immunity, revenue bond act, tax increment financing, bidding and procurement, compliance with various code provisions, etc.
- Advises and provides counsel relative to the Open Meetings Act. Freedom of Information Act, and parliamentary procedure, including providing assistance in the underlying substantive area of law and process improvements
- Assumes responsibility for providing legal services and advice regarding major projects for department heads, the City Manager and the City Commission
- Coordinates and review outside counsel work product on municipal projects
- Provides legal services to the public safety departments such as Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD), Grand Rapids Fire Department, Emergency Management, and the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability. Legal services include but are not limited to: transactional work, legal training, legal advice on projects of significance to the GRPD, as well as legal advice on discrete legal issues
- Manages complex records management such as FOIA requests, coordinating with City Staff regarding records, answering subpoenas and ensuring timely responses, and handling appeals
- Coordinating with communications staff on public safety related matters
- Provides training to internal departments related to public safety related matters.
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Minimum Training and Experience
Required Education and Experience
--AND--
- At least three (3) to six (6) years of experience as a licensed attorney
--OR--
- Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities
Required Licenses or Certifications
- Licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan, eligible for admission without examination
