Deputy City Attorney I/II

Description

ABOUT THE POSITION:

The Deputy City Attorney I/II is a Management level position that, under the supervision of the City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney performs a wide range of legal duties, including civil litigation, criminal prosecution, code enforcement, drafting and reviewing contracts, ordinances, and other documents, and providing legal advice to the City related to land use, real estate, personnel, conflicts of interests, California Public Records Act, law enforcement and public safety, and housing and economic development issues.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until the position has been filled. This recruitment may close at any time without notice.

Priority application screening deadline: November 9, 2025 at 11:59 PM

About The City Of Monterey

Nestled along California's Central Coast, the City of Monterey is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and sense of community. The City of Monterey is a full-service charter city operating under a Council-Manager form of government. The City of Monterey is a full-service city that provides police, fire, public works, planning, recreation, and parks services and operates its own conference center, sports center, parking, and marina facilities.

WHY WORK FOR US?

The City of Monterey offers a competitive benefits package to full-time employees. Some of these benefits include a Health Spending Fund, Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, Vacation Accruals, Sick Leave, 14 Paid Holidays, Education Incentive Pay, Tuition Reimbursement Programs, CalPERS Retirement, and more!

Application Process

A limited number of applicants who clearly show that they most closely meet the needs of this position in terms of training, experience, education, and other job-related characteristics will be accepted to participate in the selection process. This process will include evaluation and initial screening of the standard on-line City application to determine which candidates progress to the next phase of the recruitment process. The subsequent selection process may include a written test/written exercise, performance exercise, panel interview, and a final departmental interview. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to make changes to components of the examination process.

As a condition of employment, the selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a Live Scan fingerprint background check and reference check. Depending on the position, as a condition of employment, the selected candidate may also be required to pass a physical exam including a drug screen and a federal background check to gain access to military and police facilities and systems. Positions that require work on a military installation will involve job duties performed on-site and therefore require passing a background check conducted by the Department of Defense (DoD).

Candidates who successfully progress through all phases of this recruitment process will be placed on an eligible list. The eligible list is active for 12-months and may be used to fill additional positions including lower-level positions, regular part-time, and part-time temporary seasonal, determined to have similar duties and requirements.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until the position has been filled. This recruitment may close at any time without notice.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Monterey provides outstanding services to the public and is deeply committed to a community and workforce that is inclusive, equitable, and diverse. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified applicants, including underrepresented minorities that contribute to the diversification and enrichment of ideas and perspectives. The City of Monterey does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual’s status in any group of class protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Summary

Under the supervision of the City Attorney or Assistant City Attorney, provides a wide range of professional legal services to the City Council, City Manager, City departments, and Boards and Commissions. Deputy City Attorney I is an entry-level professional position requiring no prior legal experience. Deputy City Attorney II performs more complex legal assignments with increased independence and may represent the City in trials, hearings, and administrative proceedings as the lead attorney/first chair while the Deputy City Attorney I assists the lead attorney.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Deputy City Attorney I is the entry-level classification in the Deputy City Attorney series. Incumbents work under close supervision while learning to apply legal principles and practices in a municipal setting. This classification is designed for recent State Bar of California admittees or attorneys with minimal experience and serves as a training ground for promotion to the II level.

Deputy City Attorney II is the journey-level classification, expected to perform a broader range of duties with greater independence and less supervision. Incumbents at this level may independently handle litigation, legal research, contract negotiation, and advisory matters.

Salary

• Deputy City Attorney I: $127,920.00 - $144,000.00 yr
• Deputy City Attorney II: $163,272.00 - $198,456.00 yr
  
  

Examples of Duties

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Resolve legal issues within City policy guidelines; research and evaluate pertinent decisions, policies, regulations, claims, civil actions, and other legal matters; assure effective communication of issues and strategies with the City Attorney and Assistant City Attorney.
• Prepare written or oral opinions on various legal issues for the City Attorney, Assistant City Attorney, City Manager, Council, and City departments.
• Provide legal advice and counsel to City officials, boards, commissions, and City staff on a variety of legal matters.
• Assist with case preparation and resolution of litigation, negotiations, settlements, prosecutions, and other municipal legal proceedings within scope of authority; develop legal assessments and strategies under the direction or guidance of the Assistant City Attorney; conduct factual and legal analysis to determine whether legal issues should be prosecuted or defended, based on the facts of law and evidence; conduct conferences with opposing parties concerning case management and settlement of cases.
• Negotiate, draft, and review contracts; develop drafts of resolutions, ordinances, and proposed legislation; represents the City in civil, criminal, and administrative hearings.
• Assist Code Enforcement to prepare code violation cases for hearing or prosecution.
• Review meeting agenda items, attend public meetings to provide legal advice and information, and present findings, recommendations, and effective solutions.
• Exercise independent judgment within policy guidelines; recognize and analyze potential liability and legal issues, evaluate complex legal issues, and recommend and implement solutions to minimize risk and safeguard the City’s operations.
• Monitor changes in state and federal regulations, standards, and legislation governing municipalities.
• Support the relationship between the City of Monterey and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with residents, visitors, and City staff.
• Maintain confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
• Perform other job-related duties within the scope of this job classification as assigned.
  
  

Typical Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Deputy City Attorney I

• Education: Completion of Juris Doctor Degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school.
• Experience: No prior legal experience required; experience in government or municipal law (e.g., internships, clerkships) is desirable.
  
  

Deputy City Attorney II:

• Education: Completion of Juris Doctor Degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school; consideration of graduates from non-ABA accredited law schools that have been accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California will be given based on experience.
• Experience: Three (3) years’ experience in the practice of law. Government legal practice and courtroom experience is preferred.
  
  

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

License And Certification

• Must be a member of the California State Bar Association, licensed to practice law in the state, and remain active with all California Bar annual requirements.
  
  

Supplemental Info

Knowledge And Skills

Knowledge of:

• City organization, operations, policies, and procedures.
• How to obtain and interpret legal precedents and court decisions impacting municipal government.
• Legal research methods, techniques, sources, databases, and other research tools.
• Principles and protocols for the evidentiary gathering of information, documents, financial records, and other data that may be used in court and legal hearings.
• Principles and practices of legal, ethical, and professional rules of conduct.
• Office procedures and equipment, including computers and specialized software applications.
  
  

Skill in:

• Analyzing legal, administrative, and operational data and issues, interpreting laws and regulations, evaluating alternatives, and developing strategies for effective resolution of issues.
• Representing the City in legal hearings and negotiations.
• Effectively assessing, interpreting, and applying laws to information, evidence, and other data compiled.
• Evaluating technical and legal documents, and evaluating compliance with regulatory requirements and municipal government activities.
• Explaining City policies and procedures while exercising the highest degree of confidentiality.
• Exercising judgment and discretion, negotiating agreements, and mediating difficult situations.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with employees, officials, other government agencies and the general public.
• Assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks, projects and demands.
• Strong oral communication and advocacy skills.
• Communicating knowledge clearly and concisely to staff in writing.
  
  

Physical Demands

• Standing & Walking – Primarily sedentary classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required.
• Sitting - Ability to work in a seated position at a computer station for extended periods of time.
• Lifting - Ability to safely lift up 20 pounds to waist level; these requirements include bending at knees to facilitate proper lifting techniques.
• Manual Dexterity - Ability to perform multiple work activities requiring a significant level of physical and mental coordination, such as operating a computer keyboard; copying, and adding machines.
• Visual – Ability to read printed materials and view a computer screen for long periods.
• Hearing and Speech - Ability to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone.
• Mobility – Ability to work in a standard office setting and operate a motor vehicle to visit various meeting sites, reach, carry, push, pull, stoop, and bend.
  
  

Environmental Elements

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All City of Monterey employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

Tuition Reimbursement : $2,000 per fiscal year.

Deferred Compensation : City will match employee paid contributions to a maximum of $150.00 per month.

Retirement : CalPERS 2.7% @ 55 with highest year formula is provided for current City of Monterey employees or new employees who were hired prior to January 1, 2013 and who are currently active or have been active within six months of the date of hire in the CalPERS retirement system. The employee retirement contribution for these employees is 11% and is deducted on a pre-tax basis. The CalPERS retirement formula for new employees who do not meet the criteria stated above is 2% @ 62 with highest three year compensation. The employee retirement contribution is 8.25% and is deducted on a pre-tax basis. The City participates in the Medicare portion of Social Security.

Health Plan Spending Fund: A minimum of $914.82 per month up to $2,540 per month, dependent upon level of participation (cash-in-lieu of benefits is $300) may be used to purchase medical benefits for the employee and dependents through the PERS Health Plan Program, dependent dental, additional life insurance, dependent care, and/or health care expenses through a Section 125 Flexible Spending Account.

Dental : Fully paid employee premium by the City.

Vision : Fully paid premium for employee and eligible dependents.

Life Insurance : $50,000 policy paid by the City, with an option to purchase additional coverage up to $350,000.

Short Term / Long Term Disability Plan: The City provides a Short Term/Long Term Disability Plan.

Flexible Spending Account: The Section 125 Plan provides for an employee to set pre-tax dollars aside, through a payroll deduction, for reimbursement of health care and dependent care expenses.

Group Legal: Subject to provider limitations, the City will continue to provide a Group Legal Services Plan for employees represented by GEM through an employee-paid premium. Participation in the program shall be voluntary and consistent with the provider's requirements that the potential pool of participants must include a minimum of 200 employees

City Recreation Program Fees: Resident Rates for City Recreation classes and programs for employees and immediate family household members.

Voluntary Unpaid Leave: With advance approval, an employee may take up to forty (40) hours of unpaid leave per calendar year.

Fitness Pass : Fitness Pass Program available to use the City of Monterey Sports Center.

Fitness Activity Plan : Employees are eligible to participate in a Fitness Activity Plan where they work out off-duty in exchange for leave time accrued in a Fitness Leave bank. Each year, a maximum of 40 hours can be accrued (10 hours per quarter) with a maximum of 80 hours allowed in the bank. The Fitness Leave bank does not have cash value, and time accrued has no expiration date.

Employee Assistance Program : Fully paid confidential counseling and referral service for employee and eligible dependents.

Management Leave : Management employees shall be provided with 80 hours of management leave at the beginning of each calendar year. Newly hired managers will be awarded leave on a prorated basis depending on hire date.

Holidays : 14 paid days annually plus 1 floating holiday.

Sick Leave : 12 days per year.*

Vacation : 1-5 years/10 days; 6-10 years/15 days; 11-15 years/ 17 days; 15+ years/20 days.;20+ years/23 days per year.*

• Relocation assistance, sick leave and vacation balances and initial vacation accrual rate negotiable.
  
  

Additional Information

• Candidate selected will serve up to one-year probationary period.
• Candidates who pass the testing process will be placed on an eligibility list. This list may be used to fill additional positions (including subordinate positions) that become available during the life of the list.
• This bulletin is for informational purposes only and does not supersede rules regulations, ordinances and resolutions currently in effect.
• Pursuant to the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, employees must show proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States.
• The City of Monterey is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
  
  

01

Please answer the following questions. Completion of the following supplemental questions is REQUIRED and is an integral part of the evaluation process. Your responses to the questions will be reviewed and scored in a Qualifications Appraisal evaluation process based on pre-determined rating criteria. Your answers should be as complete as possible, as this information will be critical in the competitive assessment to identify those candidates to be invited to continue in the examination process. A response of "see resume" or "see application" will deem your responses to the supplemental questions as incomplete. Please limit your response to 500 words or less. The text boxes below does NOT provide the word count. Note: All application materials submitted will be reviewed along with your supplemental questions and City of Monterey application. I have read and understand the supplemental questions instructions.

• Yes
• No
  
  

02

Do you possess a Juris Doctorate degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school?

• Yes
• No
  
  

03

If you answered 'No' to the previous question, do you possess a Juris Doctor Degree from a non-ABA accredited law school that has been accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California?

• Yes
• No
  
  

04

Are you a current member of the California State Bar Association, with an active licensed to practice law in the state of California, and are active with all California Bar annual requirements?

• Yes
• No
  
  

05

If you answered 'No' to the previous question, did you take the most recent administration of the California Bar exam and are awaiting the result?

• Yes
• No
  
  

06

Please select the option that best describes your municipal law and/or litigation experience in the State of California.

• 7 years or more
• 5 - 6 years or more
• 3 - 4 years or more
• 1 - 2 years or more
• Less than 1 year of experience
  
  

07

Describe your experience advising clients regarding affordable housing, in particular, and land use, in general. Include in your answer the types of clients, the nature and scope of the issues, and any relevant public agency experience.

08

Describe your experience advising clients in the area of law enforcement and public safety issues. Include in your answer the types of clients, the nature and scope of the issues, and any relevant public agency experience.

09

Describe your experience advising clients in the area of employment law. Include in your answer the types of clients, the nature and scope of the issues, and any relevant public agency experience.

10

Describe your legal research and experience advising clients in the area of litigation and administrative hearings. Include in your answer the types of clients, the nature and scope of the issues, and any relevant public agency experience.

11

Describe your legal research and experience advising clients in the area of contract law. Include in your answer the types of clients, the nature and scope of the issues, and any relevant public agency experience.

12

Provide one writing sample, of which you were the primary author, that illustrates any of the experiences from questions #7 through #11. Redact any identifying information if necessary. You will have the ability to attach your writing sample when applying online. You will use the "Add Attachment(s)" function in the "Confirmation Application" stage of the application process to upload your writing sample. Please title your writing sample "Supplemental Writing Sample." Have you attached a writing sample that is titled "Supplemental Writing Sample?"

• Yes
• No
• Required Question