Lead Municipal Government Practice Attorney

Illinois State Bar Association; Peoria (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Illinois State Bar Association seeks an experienced Government Practice Attorney to provide comprehensive legal counsel to local government and public bodies, advising elected officials, department heads, police and fire chiefs, and governing boards on policy, compliance, and employment matters.

The role emphasizes ordinance drafting, land use and zoning guidance, FOIA/OMA compliance, and litigation oversight, with coordination of outside counsel when necessary and regular meeting attendance.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school required.
• Active Illinois bar in good standing required.
• Minimum five years representing local government entities, in-house or as outside counsel.

Responsibilities

• Counsel and advise governing bodies, officials, and department heads on public policy and regulatory compliance.
• Draft, review, and negotiate ordinances, resolutions, real estate agreements, vendor contracts, and IGAs.
• Advise on land use applications, variances, special permits, annexations, and economic development incentives.
• Ensure FOIA and OMA compliance, review FOIA requests, and manage closed meeting matters.
• Oversee litigation and code enforcement, coordinate with outside counsel as needed.
• Attend regular and special meetings of public bodies and commissions.

Skills

Communication

Ordinance drafting

Litigation management

Public speaking

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Illinois Bar Admission

Job description

Illinois State Bar Association seeks an experienced Government Practice Attorney to provide comprehensive legal counsel to local government and public bodies, advising elected officials, department heads, police and fire chiefs, and governing boards on policy, compliance, and employment matters.

The role emphasizes ordinance drafting, land use and zoning guidance, FOIA/OMA compliance, and litigation oversight, with coordination of outside counsel when necessary and regular meeting attendance.