The City of Aurora, CO is seeking a City Attorney to serve as the legal counsel for the Mayor, City Council and all city agencies, departments and boards and commissions. The office is comprised of two divisions: the Civil Division and the Criminal Justice Division. The Civil division works to prepare ordinances, represent the city in litigation, and provide legal counsel to the Mayor and City Council, Council Appointees and acts as corporate legal counsel to city departments. The Criminal Justice division handles prosecution of violations of municipal ordinances and regulations. Under the direction of the City Council, the City Attorney serves as the chief legal advisor to the city and will manage a department of 69 FTEs and an approved FY24 operating budget of $10,451,707.
This City Attorney will serve as parliamentarian for Council meetings and to provide legal opinions and guidance on contemplated actions of City Council, legal ramifications of pending litigation or potential legislation under consideration by the City Council. This role will draft, review, negotiate and update legal documents, including ordinances, resolutions, amendments, agreements, policies, and personnel actions to ensure the City is in compliance with legal requirements. The City Attorney will also be responsible for ensuring that the activities of the city are conducted in accordance with the requirements of Federal, State, and local laws and City Charter and Code and will provide defense for all litigation brought against the city and/or its officers and employees.
Candidates shall have a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school, at least 10 years progressively responsible municipal law experience, and 3 years of supervisory experience. Prior legal experience in local government working with elected officials, city management, department heads and/or independent boards and commissions is imperative for this role. Candidates must be licensed to practice law in the state of Colorado and be in good standing or be eligible to and obtain such license within one year of employment through admission by motion AND be eligible to practice law in Colorado pending such admission at time of employment.
This position is eligible for a flexible/hybrid work schedule, but candidates must reside in proximity to the Greater Aurora/Denver Metro Area.