ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY

Summary:
The City of Lawrence has an opportunity to join its legal team, with a primary focus on supporting the City’s public safety departments.

Lawrence, a vibrant community, has a population of more than 100,000 with many amenities of larger cities while retaining the small-town charm that its residents value. Home to both the University of Kansas and Haskell Indian Nations University, the community enjoys a highly regarded public school system. With an informed, engaged, and active community, our legal department has the opportunity to work on interesting and evolving legal issues in general municipal law, constitutional law, criminal law and procedures, open records and open meetings law, and contract law, among others.

The City has a Commission-Manager form of government with five members elected at large. The City Commission appoints the City Manager to administer programs and policies of the Commission with 870 employees and a budget of $518.7 million.

The City Attorney’s Office provides legal advice and support to elected officials and City staff. The Assistant City Attorney’s key duties include drafting ordinances, conducting legal and policy research, writing legal pleadings and memoranda, providing legal training to City staff, monitoring and responding to recent developments in the law, appearing in court in behalf of the City, responding to calls from police officers after regular business hours, and attending evening meetings, as needed.

Qualifications:
This position requires two years of legal work in municipal government, or an equivalent level of experience, with a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and membership in good standing of the bar of the State of Kansas. Must have excellent legal research skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, and strong analytical skills. Must also be able to manage both long- and short-term assignments in a dynamic work environment. Must have working knowledge of office procedures and equipment, including Microsoft Office. Preference will be given to candidates with experience working in government who also possess civil and/or criminal law practice experience. Must possess, or have the ability to obtain, a valid driver’s license. The successful candidate must also pass the background check and post-offer City physical and drug screen.

A cover letter and writing sample are required for consideration.

Benefit Information:
Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance: Various coverage levels available; FREE Well Care Clinic through LMH; other wellness benefits/perks
Caregiver Leave – 12 weeks paid leave
Paid Time Off:12 Vacation days, 12 Sick days accrued per year; 2 days Personal Leave, 10 Paid Holidays
Retirement: Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) 

This position is open until filled.  Application review will begin February 7, 2025.