Senior Appeals Unit Leader – City Solicitor (Onsite)

Citizens Planning Institute; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 149,000 - 176,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Transit benefits (SEPTA KEY Advantage)

Parental leave

Health coverage for employees and deps

Wellness program

Paid vacation, sick leave and holidays

Retirement savings options

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Tuition discounts and scholarships

Job summary

City of Philadelphia is seeking a Chief Deputy City Solicitor for the Appeals Unit. This senior role leads appellate practice for a large municipality, supervising attorneys and staff while shaping strategy for high‑exposure cases, including First Amendment matters.

The role requires extensive appellate experience, strong writing and advocacy skills, and a law degree from an ABA-accredited school. Expect onsite work and collaboration with multiple City departments.

Qualifications

• Senior/supervisory level role requiring extensive appellate experience.
• Minimum of 9+ years of legal experience relevant to the unit.
• Law degree from an ABA-accredited law school; PA Bar membership or reciprocity eligibility required.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise all attorneys and administrative personnel in the unit.
• Coach attorneys to improve written and courtroom advocacy.
• Represent the City in federal and state appellate courts and participate in settlement conferences.
• Brief and argue complex issues; provide strategic advice on high-exposure matters.
• Advise clients on First Amendment concerns and collaborate across departments.

Skills

Jury trial experience

Appellate experience

Strong writing & advocacy

First Amendment knowledge

Education

Law degree (ABA accredited)

Job description

City of Philadelphia is seeking a Chief Deputy City Solicitor for the Appeals Unit. This senior role leads appellate practice for a large municipality, supervising attorneys and staff while shaping strategy for high‑exposure cases, including First Amendment matters.

The role requires extensive appellate experience, strong writing and advocacy skills, and a law degree from an ABA-accredited school. Expect onsite work and collaboration with multiple City departments.