Municipal Litigation Attorney

Job Overview:
A renowned law firm seeks a Municipal Litigation Attorney to join its team in in Sacramento. This position offers a unique opportunity for an attorney with 19 years of municipal law experience to directly advise and represent public-sector clients, including local governments, in a wide array of legal matters. From municipal code enforcement to land use disputes, the successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting public agencies. The firm provides comprehensive mentorship and professional development, ensuring attorneys gain experience across all stages of litigation while working closely with local officials at public meetings and hearings.

Duties:

• Manage litigation matters from initial filing through resolution, including strategy development, discovery management, settlement negotiations, and trial preparation.
• Handle law and motion practice at both the trial and appellate court levels, including drafting motions and presenting oral arguments.
• Advise city officials and government staff on legal compliance, policy interpretation, and general municipal law matters.
• Represent government entities at public meetings, including council sessions, hearings, and community events, providing legal counsel in real-time.
• Engage in public outreach and educational presentations to promote understanding of local ordinances and state law requirements.
• Handle cases involving code enforcement, community preservation, land use disputes, nuisance abatement, civil rights claims, and other municipal matters.
• Collaborate closely with senior attorneys to develop creative legal strategies that align with each municipality’s unique needs and goals.

Requirements:

• 19 years of experience practicing municipal law or public agency representation, ideally including experience with litigation involving local governments.
• Strong ability to manage a diverse caseload while balancing court deadlines, client communication, and public meeting obligations.
• Experience drafting legal briefs, motions, and advisory opinions tailored for governmental clients.
• Confident and approachable communicator capable of interacting directly with elected officials, city managers, and community stakeholders.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Licensed to practice law in the State Bar and in good standing.

Skills:

• Strong legal research and analytical skills, particularly in municipal and administrative law contexts.
• Exceptional written advocacy for motions, briefs, and advisory memos.
• Skilled in oral argument and public speaking, with comfort addressing both courtrooms and public meetings.
• High level of organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple ongoing matters.
• Collaborative mindset and team-oriented approach, particularly when partnering with attorneys, paralegals, and public officials.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Generous paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Work within a collegial and collaborative environment that supports career growth in municipal law.