Legal Counsel

City of Newark; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Newark seeks an experienced municipal attorney to oversee the legal affairs of the City and provide counsel to officials, departments, and agencies on contracts, labor, civil litigation, and public policy.

You will represent the City in administrative hearings, court proceedings, and other matters, while drafting and negotiating ordinances, resolutions, and settlements. The role also includes supervising attorneys and engaging with external counsel and the community.

Qualifications

• J.D. degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the New Jersey Bar and a valid NJ license to practice law.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in municipal law or related field, focusing on litigation and counsel.
• Strong knowledge of NJ municipal law, regulations, and procedures.
• Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community members, and legal professionals.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the legal affairs of the City.
• Provide legal advice and counsel to municipal officials, departments, and agencies on contracts, labor, civil litigation, and public policy.
• Represent the City in administrative hearings, court proceedings, and other matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate settlements, ordinances, resolutions, and other legal documents.
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda and opinions.
• Supervise and mentor attorneys and support staff in the Law Department.
• Collaborate with external counsel and consultants as needed.
• Engage in community outreach and public education related to legal matters.

Skills

Juris Doctor

NJ Bar

Municipal law

Leadership

Communication

Analytical writing

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

Job description

• Assist the Administration in overseeing the legal affairs of the City.
• Provide legal advice and counsel to municipal officials, departments, and agencies on a wide range of legal issues, including contracts, labor relations, civil litigation, and public policy.
• Represent the City in administrative hearings, court proceedings, and other legal matters.
• Draft, review, and negotiate settlements, ordinances, resolutions, and other legal documents.
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda and opinions.
• Supervise and mentor attorneys and support staff within the Law Department.
• Collaborate with external counsel and consultants as needed.
• Engage in community outreach and public education initiatives related to legal matters.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the New Jersey Bar and a valid New Jersey license to practice law.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in municipal law or a related field, with a focus on litigation and legal counsel.
• Strong knowledge of New Jersey municipal law, regulations, and procedures.
• Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community members, and legal professionals.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.