• JD degree from an accredited law school.
• At least three (3) years of responsible post law school graduation experience in civil legal practice or two (2) years of experience performing duties comparable to those of Deputy City Attorney I for the City of Santa Clara;
• Civil litigation or extensive transactional experience is required.
• Significant research and personal computer experience is required.
• Experience in a variety of subject areas in a municipal law office is highly desirable;
• Experience with the California Codes and the California Code of Regulations and familiarity with research using online legal databases is highly desirable.

This is a professional position in the Unclassified Service responsible for   performing a broader range of duties, which deal with more complex issues.  The Deputy City Attorney must exercise independent judgment and discretion; prioritize and complete work assignments.

As a member of the City’s Unclassified Service, this is an “at-will” position.  The incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.  An incumbent in this classification:  demonstrates strong ethical, professional, and service-oriented leadership and interpersonal skills; sets a good example; and correctly applies the tenets of the City's Code of Ethics and Values.

• Gives legal counsel to elected and appointed officials, commissions, and committees;
• Makes appearances and participates effectively on legal matters (including trials) before courts, boards and commissions;
• Attends meetings as assigned;
• Prepares pleadings, briefs, and other documents;
• Assists in the preparation and approval of more complex ordinances, resolutions, contracts, leases, specifications, and other legal documents;
• Prosecutes violations of the City’s ordinances;
• Represents the City in criminal, civil litigation, and administrative hearings;
• Makes court appearances;
• Performs legal research and prepares opinions on various legal problems for City Council, Boards and Commissions, and City Departments;
• Interprets and applies laws, court decisions, ordinances, resolutions and other legal sources in advising City staff I on legal matters;
• Prosecute misdemeanor and infraction vi Interprets and applies laws, court decisions, ordinances, resolutions and other legal sources in advising City staff I on legal matters;
• Investigate claims and complaints by or against the City; recommend appropriate action to be taken;
• Act in an advisory capacity at meetings of City boards and commissions and the City Council as needed;
• Provides legal advice to various City departments and staff;
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• The principles and practices of civil and criminal procedure;
• Constitutional law;
• Rules of evidence; and
• Legal research resources and research techniques.

• Analyze and apply principles of law;
• Conduct thorough research on legal issues;
• Present statements of law, fact, and argument clearly and logically;
• Prepare proper legal instruments;
• Draft and prepare legal documents;
• Communicate clearly clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing;
• Exercise independent judgment and discretion;
• Handle stressful or sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work;
• Work as team player and provide excellent customer service to internal City clients; and
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.