City Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

***Open Until Filled***

The City of Haines City is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applicants for all positions equally without regard to their race, sex, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. The City of Haines City is a Drug-Free Workplace. Applicants who complete the initial screening process will be required to complete a pre-employment drug screen and physical. Police Department applicants will also be required to take a Polygraph Examination. All information provided by an applicant will be verified for truthfulness and accuracy if a conditional offer of employment is made. Applications and other submitted documents are considered public records.

Appointment and compensation

The City Attorney is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the City Commission in accordance with the City Charter. Compensation is determined by contract or agreement approved by the City Commission.

Position Function:

Pursuant to the City Charter, the City Attorney is appointed by the City Commission and serves as the chief legal advisor to the City Commission, City Manager, and all City departments. The City Attorney provides professional legal services and representation in all matters affecting the City and ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Essential Duties:

1. Serves as legal advisor to the City Commission, City Manager, boards, committees, and City staff.

2. Attends City Commission meetings, workshops, and special meetings; provides legal opinions during public meetings as requested.

3. Drafts, reviews, and approves ordinances, resolutions, contracts, interlocal agreements, policies, and other legal instruments.

4. Represents the City in litigation, administrative hearings, negotiations, and other legal proceedings, or coordinates with outside counsel when authorized by the City Commission.

5. Advises City officials and staff on compliance with the City Charter, Code of Ordinances, Florida Statutes, and applicable federal laws.

6. Provides guidance on public records, open meetings (Sunshine Law), ethics, conflicts of interest, procurement, and risk management matters.

7. Provides legal support related to land use, zoning, development agreements, code enforcement, and municipal operations.

8. Conducts legal research and prepares written legal opinions.

9. Advises on election-related legal matters as required by law.

10. Reviews proposed legislation and advises the City Commission and City staff on legal implications.

11. Performs other duties as assigned by the City Commission.

12. Performs additional duties as assigned.

Environment:

Work is performed primarily in an office and public meeting environment. Attendance at evening meetings and special sessions is required. Travel may be required for hearings, meetings, or training.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.

• Active membership in good standing with The Florida Bar.

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in municipal or local government law preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of municipal law and governmental operations.

• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.

• Ability to communicate complex legal matters clearly and effectively.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive matters.

• Ability to work collaboratively with elected officials, staff, and the public.

Other Requirements:

• Must possess a valid Florida Class E driver license.

• Must pass applicable pre-employment testing and background checks.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

This position may be required to report for work when a declaration of emergency has been declared in Polk County.