Senior City Attorney - Lead Litigation & Policy

Birmingham; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 109,000 - 169,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Pension plan (employer-sponsored)

Paid holidays and vacation leave

Job summary

The City of Birmingham is seeking an experienced Principal Attorney to handle complex cases, provide legal guidance to executive leaders, and lead litigation or transactional efforts for the City and its agencies. The role emphasizes strategic legal leadership, negotiation, and collaboration with city departments.

Responsibilities include representing the City in court and before boards, drafting agreements, and ensuring lawful operations while managing projects and directing junior attorneys.

Qualifications

• Active Alabama State Bar Association member in good standing.
• Experience in litigation or transactional work handling complex issues (police misconduct, excessive use of force, workplace discrimination, personal injury, constitutional rights, contracting, real estate, ordinances, procurement).
• Experience assigning and delegating work to administrative staff.
• Experience as the lead attorney in litigation or transactional matters.

Responsibilities

• Represent the City, boards, agencies and employees in court and before administrative boards and mediators.
• Investigate claims and prepare for and represent the City in litigation to minimize liability.
• Draft and review legal documents to protect the City's interests and inform decision-making.
• Provide legal advice on laws, codes and policies to minimize legal liability.
• Conduct legal research and engage in professional development to maintain current knowledge of applicable laws.
• Negotiate settlements and contracts on behalf of the City.
• Manage agency projects by setting goals, delegating, and reporting progress.

Job description

The City of Birmingham is seeking an experienced Principal Attorney to handle complex cases, provide legal guidance to executive leaders, and lead litigation or transactional efforts for the City and its agencies. The role emphasizes strategic legal leadership, negotiation, and collaboration with city departments.

Responsibilities include representing the City in court and before boards, drafting agreements, and ensuring lawful operations while managing projects and directing junior attorneys.