Staff Attorney

Vermont League of Cities and Towns; Augusta, Northern (ME, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule

Competitive benefits package

Paid time off

Job summary

The Maine Municipal Association (MMA) is seeking a Staff Attorney to join our Legal Services team. This role focuses on providing practical legal guidance on municipal issues, supporting educational programs, and helping local governments address evolving legal challenges.

The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, skilled researcher and writer, and a collaborative problem-solver who thrives in a mission-driven environment serving Maine municipalities.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active Maine Bar membership or ability to obtain admission promptly.
• Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently and in a collaborative team.
• Commitment to public service and supporting effective local government.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to municipal officials on a broad range of municipal law matters.
• Research statutes, ordinances, regulations, and case law affecting local government operations.
• Prepare written legal opinions, memoranda, and guidance materials.
• Develop and present trainings, workshops, and educational programs for municipal officials and employees.
• Draft, revise, and maintain legal manuals, publications, and resource materials.
• Collaborate with other attorneys and staff to develop practical guidance for member municipalities.
• Monitor developments in municipal, state, and federal law and communicate implications to officials.
• Assist with amicus briefs in statewide municipal significance cases.
• Represent MMA before legislative committees and government bodies as needed.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Analytical thinking

Public service mindset

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

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

Job description

The Maine Municipal Association (MMA) is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that provides advocacy, education, training, legal assistance, risk management, and other professional services to Maine's municipalities. Our Legal Services Department serves as a trusted resource for local government officials across the state, helping municipalities navigate complex legal issues, comply with evolving laws and regulations, and promote effective local governance.

Position Summary

The Maine Municipal Association is seeking a Staff Attorney to join our Legal Services team. This is a unique opportunity to build a rewarding legal career focused on public service while working with municipal leaders throughout Maine.

In this role, you will provide practical legal guidance on a wide range of municipal issues, contribute to educational and training programs, and help local governments address emerging legal challenges. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, skilled legal researcher and writer, and collaborative problem-solver who enjoys working in a dynamic and mission-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and guidance to municipal officials on a broad range of municipal law matters.
• Research and analyze statutes, ordinances, regulations, administrative guidance, and case law affecting local government operations.
• Prepare written legal opinions, memoranda, and other guidance materials.
• Develop and present trainings, workshops, and educational programs for municipal officials and employees.
• Draft, revise, and maintain legal manuals, publications, and resource materials.
• Collaborate with other attorneys and staff to develop practical legal guidance for member municipalities.
• Monitor developments in municipal, state, and federal law and communicate their implications to municipal officials.
• Assist with the preparation amicus curiae briefs in cases involving issues of statewide municipal significance.
• Represent MMA before legislative committees, administrative agencies, and other governmental bodies as needed.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the Maine Bar, or the ability to obtain admission promptly.
• Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Commitment to public service and supporting effective local government.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in municipal law, public sector law, land use, labor and employment, Freedom of Access Act matters, or related practice areas.
• Experience advising governmental entities, boards, commissions, or municipal clients.
• Familiarity with the structure and operations of local government in Maine.

Compensation and Benefits

MMA offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with an outstanding benefits package that includes:

• 100% employer-paid medical and dental coverage.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Hybrid work schedule with the opportunity to work remotely two days per week.
• Predictable work hours that support work-life balance.
• A collegial, collaborative, and mission-driven workplace.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact on communities across Maine.

MMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Monday through Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM, 37.5 hours per week.