Public Records Counsel – Right-to-Know Unit (Onsite)

Philadelphia PA; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 84,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Transportation benefits

8 weeks paid parental leave

Comprehensive health coverage

Wellness program

Paid vacation & holidays

Retirement options

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Tuition discounts

Job summary

The City of Philadelphia Law Department seeks an Assistant City Solicitor for the Compliance & Legislation Group’s Right to Know Unit. Responsibilities include advising all City departments, offices, and boards on Right to Know Law requests, appeals, and related legal issues, with focus on privacy and confidential information.

The role also covers record retention guidance, litigation appeals, and drafting settlements.

Qualifications

• This is an entry level position but one (1) year plus of relevant experience within a legal setting is preferred.
• Candidates must have a law degree from an ABA accredited law school and must either be a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204). Continued employment of attorneys not admitted to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within six (6) months of hire is at the discretion of the Law Department.
• The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Advising all City departments, offices, and boards on responding to Right to Know Law requests, appeals, and other legal issues concerning the Right to Know Law and various other laws concerning privacy, confidentiality, and the release of public records.
• Reviewing records and providing legal advice on the public release of records.
• Representing the City on appeals of Right-to-Know Law requests and related litigation.
• Training City employees and officials and Open Records Officers on compliance with the Right-to-Know Law.
• Negotiating, reviewing, and drafting settlement and confidentiality agreements.
• Interpreting City, State, and Federal laws, rulings, and regulations.

Skills

Legal writing

Oral advocacy

Negotiation

Legal research

Team collaboration

Education

J.D. (ABA-accredited)

Job description

The City of Philadelphia Law Department seeks an Assistant City Solicitor for the Compliance & Legislation Group’s Right to Know Unit. Responsibilities include advising all City departments, offices, and boards on Right to Know Law requests, appeals, and related legal issues, with focus on privacy and confidential information.

The role also covers record retention guidance, litigation appeals, and drafting settlements.