Assistant City Attorney I – Freedom of Information Act Records & Collective Bargaining Attorney

An Overview

The Opportunity

The incumbent will work with various departments related to records requests made pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The main tasks of the position are to ensure the proper processing of records requests and review records from all City departments and offices. The position will include performing research and preparing legal opinions; responding to inquiries and rendering legal advice to departments; assisting in defending lawsuits filed against the City; and performing regular trainings for client departments. It also may include attending meetings of City boards and commissions and advising them on legal issues pertaining to FOIA.

The position will also serve as a member of the City’s Collective Bargaining legal team on an as needed basis, assisting in interpreting contract provisions, advising on implementation issues, and supporting negotiations or fact-finding proceedings. This work is dependent on the volume of the FOIA-related work, which takes priority.

About the Department

The City Attorney's Office provides legal advice to City Council, Boards and Commissions, the City Manager and City Departments. We are responsible for drafting ordinances, contracts, deeds, leases, and other legal papers. We represent the City in civil court to defend the City in actions taken against it and to initiate cases to enforce the City's laws and actions. Our office is also responsible for handling requests for public records, in compliance with FOIA and for serving as an adjudicator for parking ticket disputes.

Minimum & Additional Requirements

Graduation from a law school of recognized standing with a Juris Doctor degree. Eligibility to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia, or the ability to become so authorized within eight months of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have experience with processing and reviewing records requests under FOIA and have the ability to work efficiently in IT applications specific to FOIA including but not limited to Gov QA and Adobe Pro. The ideal candidate should also have experience conducting legal research and drafting opinions; drafting ordinances and resolutions; have excellent legal writing skills; and experience in dealing with inquiries from members of the public, staff, and local governing bodies.

Notes

This position will require the successful completion of a background investigation, including a criminal records check.

The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.