Assistant Corporation Counsel III - Federal Civil Rights Litigation Division

The City of Chicago’s Law Department is seeking an attorney for the position of Assistant Corporation Counsel III (ACC) in the Federal Civil Rights Litigation Division.

The Division defends alleged civil rights violations or state law liability claims based on allegations of police misconduct or abuse of authority in both federal and state courts. The Division has two sections: (1) the City Defense Section which defends the City of Chicago against allegations such as Monell policy claims; and (2) the Individual Defense Section which defends sworn and civilian police personnel against allegations such as false arrest and excessive force. Each ACC is assigned to one section. ACCs in each section must have sophisticated and complex litigation skills involving extensive motion practice, client counseling, intensive fact and expert discovery, and trial practice in lower exposure cases. They work under the supervision of the Supervisors and Chiefs in their Section, and the Deputies of FCRL. They will be joining a hardworking, sharp team of litigators dedicated to public service to the City of Chicago.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Ideal candidates will possess:

• Litigation experience in one or more of the following areas: drafting pleadings and other court documents, drafting substantive motions, arguing substantive motions, taking or defending depositions, handling evidentiary hearings, assisting in jury or bench trials, or clerking for a state or federal court judge;
• Superior writing, research, and editing skills;
• Superior communication skills (written/verbal);
• Experience counseling and advising clients;
• Exceptional organizational skills;
• The ability to work well with others;
• The ability to exhibit initiative on assigned tasks;
• The ability to organize, prioritize, monitor, and control workflow deadlines; and
• Commitment to public service.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an American Bar Association accredited law school with a Juris Doctor degree, admission to the Illinois Bar (or eligible for admission on motion to the Illinois Bar pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 705),
• Good standing with your state Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission.