Deputy City Attorney - Civil Litigation Division in , us

Deputy City Attorney

Deputy City Attorney – Civil Litigation Division.

Mission

The Santa Monica City Attorney's Office is committed to providing excellent legal work that is efficient and cost‑effective, advising City officials, representing the City and its employees fairly, and prosecuting state and local misdemeanor offenses for the People of California.

Position Overview

• Defend the City and its employees in civil litigation, primarily in law enforcement, employment, and personal injury related claims.
• Assist City officials and staff with timely, comprehensive legal advice.
• Represent the City and its employees in advocacy and prosecution matters.
• Participate in the strategy and execution of civil defense and criminal prosecution activities in accordance with the City Charter.

Required Qualifications

• Sound judgment and high ethical standards.
• Demonstrated commitment to advancing public interest.
• Strong communication, advocacy, legal research and writing skills.
• Substantial civil litigation experience defending public entities and a strong understanding of governmental immunities and applicable defenses.
• Experience litigating cases in Federal Court.
• Jury trial experience.
• Ability to work collegially with colleagues and clients.
• License to practice law in the State of California and familiarity with the California Code of Civil Procedure.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience defending civil rights actions arising from police conduct.
• Demonstrated experience defending employment‑related litigation.

Work Schedule

Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on alternate Fridays. This is a 9/80 work schedule. A hybrid remote work schedule is available but not guaranteed, with a minimum of three days in the office. Evening and weekend duties may be required to attend City Council meetings and other public events.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $218,124 to $269,292 for Deputy City Attorney III, Steps 1–5. The position offers excellent benefits and is part of the Public Attorneys Union.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal‑opportunity employer. See the EEO policy on the City Attorney's Office website.