Assistant City Solicitor

Description

Assistant City Solicitor

City of Covington, Kentucky
Legal Department
Location: Covington, KY
Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000
Job Type: Full-Time
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Application Requirements

All applicants are required to submit a legal writing sample, ranging from five to ten pages, that was prepared in connection with a previous role. The sample must have any identifiable information redacted prior to submission. Please submit your Cover Letter and a sample of writing as your "Cover Letter" in the system OR submit it to sebastian.torres@covingtonky.gov.

Why Covington?

Welcome to the bold side of the river. Covington, Kentucky, is a place where history and progress come together—and as an Assistant City Solicitor, your work will directly shape that future. We attract the bold and the best —people who are ready to make an impact—innovators, changemakers, and problem-solvers who want to be part of something bigger. Your work in the Legal Department will help drive initiatives that impact the people in this community.

Covington is all about celebrating what makes us unique. Our rainbow crosswalks, locally owned businesses, and the warm Kentucky hospitality reflect the spirit of our city. It’s where timelessness meets the ventures of tomorrow. With the most diverse and accessible city government in the region, we believe that everyone can contribute to our collective success. Most importantly, we are a city that values its people—because around here, y’all really does mean all.

If you want to be part of in shaping the future of the city, Covington could be the perfect place for you to grow your career and make a difference.

Role Summary

As an Assistant City Solicitor, you’ll support the City Solicitor in handling legal matters related to the City’s day-to-day operations. Your role will cover three key areas: Compliance, Enforcement, and General Counsel, giving you the opportunity to work on a variety of legal issues that impact our city. Your work will play a pivotal role in helping Covington continue to thrive.

The ideal candidate for this position will have a strong background in municipal law, with experience in legal research, providing advisory support, and handling enforcement matters. This role requires someone who can navigate the complexities of city operations, collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, and offer practical legal solutions that impact the community.

Role Responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Operational Tasks

• Monitor legal developments, including legislation and court decisions, and assess their impact on City operations.
• Provide legal advice on municipal law and activities, both written and oral, as requested by the City Solicitor.
• Liaise with other City departments and attend board/commission meetings to advise on legal procedures.
• Draft legal documents (pleadings, memoranda, etc.) for pending cases.
• Represent the City in state and federal courts, as needed.
• Manage legal matters from initiation to closure, including filing, recording, and service of documents.
• Handle routine legal matters independently or refer to appropriate staff.
• Perform general administrative duties, such as managing supplies, processing bills, and filing.

General Counsel

• Advise City staff on compliance with Open Meetings and Open Records Acts.
• Assist the City Clerk with complex open records requests.
• Draft and review contracts and vendor agreements.
• Oversee the City’s claims and liability programs.
• Advise on federal/state employment law and personnel matters.
• Ensure compliance with the Model Procurement Code and City procurement policies.
• Provide guidance on zoning, code enforcement, and permitting.

Enforcement

• Manage foreclosure cases involving the City, coordinating with outside counsel and departments.
• Ensure consistent enforcement of ordinances and policies; create relevant procedures and forms.
• Advise Finance on collections and pursue actions as necessary.
• Prepare real estate documents (deeds, liens, etc.) and manage foreclosure filings.

Compliance

• Draft proposed legislation for the Board of Commissioners/City Council.
• Review existing legislation for necessary revisions.
• Draft and review Economic Development transactions.
• Monitor and recommend improvements to internal procedures and policies.
• Process bankruptcy notices and file proof of claims as necessary.
• Serve as ABC Administrator or Deputy ABC Administrator, if appointed.
• Provide support to the City Clerk and serve as City Clerk in their absence.

Role Qualifications

Education: Juris Doctor degree required.

Experience: At least 3 years of experience as an attorney or a closely related legal profession.

Licensing: Must be licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, or able to obtain a Kentucky license prior to employment.

Skills:

• Knowledge of local, state, federal, and administrative laws relevant to municipal government.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Expertise in legal research, analysis, and drafting clear, concise legal documents.
• Ability to evaluate legal issues, negotiate, and make recommendations in the City’s best interest.
• High attention to detail and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining confidentiality.
• Excellent communication skills to represent the City in meetings and maintain positive relationships with staff, public officials, and the community.
• Ability to develop effective working relationships across departments and with external stakeholders.
• Customer service-oriented with the ability to diplomatically manage interactions and present a positive City image.

Language Skills

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret legal documents, technical journals, and financial reports.
• Ability to respond to inquiries or concerns from the public, regulatory agencies, or business stakeholders.
• Skilled in writing reports, legal correspondence, and other formal documents.
• Able to effectively present information to City staff, public officials, community members, and boards/commissions

Mathematical Skills

• Ability to proficiently work with mathematical skills like percentages, fractions, and basic statistic reports.

Physical Demands

• Ability to communicate effectively, stand, sit, or walk for extended periods.
• Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.

Why Join Us?

Competitive Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 based on your experience and qualifications.

Set Work Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Be Part of a Vibrant Community: The work you do directly impacts the growth and well-being of the Covington community.

Collaborative Team Environment: Work alongside talented, dedicated professionals who are passionate about making a difference.

Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and advancement within the City’s legal department.

Comprehensive Benefits Package: Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off in addition to 12 paid holidays.

EEO Statement

The City of Covington is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. We value the unique perspectives and experiences of all individuals and are proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, color, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.

Qualifications

Salary : $75,000 - $85,000