Summary Objective The purpose of this position is to technical and professional work as legal advisor to the City Commission, City Manager and department directors on assigned issues of applicable local, State and Federal laws, regulations and ordinances affecting the City with an emphasis on administering the self-insured claims and litigation program. This job works independently, under limited supervision, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary. Analyzes and provides professional legal advice to the City Commission, City Manager and department directors. Defends the City in all civil legal proceedings, from the claims stage through litigation, up to and including trial. Performs pre-trial and trial tasks, including but not limited to drafting motions, pleadings, and discovery, taking and defending depositions, and advocating for the City at hearings. Interprets laws, rulings and regulations for City officials and staff. Confer with colleagues with specialty in area of law to establish and verify basis for legal proceedings. Maintains knowledge of Federal and State laws, court decisions affecting municipalities as well as the City Charter and City Code provisions. Assesses claims and assists adjusters with claims review and processing. Obtains, reviews, and analyzes relevant supporting documents, including department files, incident reports, medical records, and witness statements. Prepares, drafts, and updates legal documents, including correspondence, monthly litigation reports, pleadings, motions, briefs, memoranda of law, discovery responses and requests, subpoenas, and documents responsive to discovery and subpoena requests. Evaluates findings, develops strategies and arguments in preparation for presentation of cases. Performs related work as assigned.

Qualifications:

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

This position requires a Juris Doctorate Degree in Law from an accredited Law School. This position requires two (2) years of legal research and litigation or related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement. Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken. None.

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

This position requires a valid Texas Class C Driver s License. This position requires a license to practice law in the State of Texas.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This position is safety sensitive, subject to random drug and alcohol testing. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities over others.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

The City of McAllen is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the ADA, reasonable accommodations may be made to qualified persons to perform the essential functions of this position. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

DISCLAIMER

This job description summarizes essential job functions and minimum job requirements for entry level work and typical duties illustrative of the type of work customarily assigned and performed in this position. However, this job description does not represent every aspect of the job nor does it guarantee permanent employment, as all positions with the City of McAllen are employment at will positions. Job descriptions are subject to periodic updates and modifications. The City reserves the right to change work assignments and other aspects of a job. The City of McAllen is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and does not tolerate unlawful discrimination or harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or any other protected status under applicable federal, state or local laws.