Position Description

This is a unique opportunity for an attorney to make significant contributions to public safety reform efforts in the City of Minneapolis by working on the team implementing the settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. The attorneys on the implementation team will support increased transparency and public input; improved oversight and accountability systems; and enhanced support for officers through robust employee wellness programs, training, and supervision. This position will collaborate and partner with the Minneapolis Office of Community Safety, the Minneapolis Police Department and other City departments to help achieve lasting positive change.
 
Working under the Managing Attorney – Implementation, this attorney will be part of a team that is working to implement many reforms required by the settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR). Eventually, this position may perform similar work with the U.S. Department of Justice.

There’s currently one full-time vacancy to be filled in the Civil Division of the City Attorney’s Office.

Application Submission Requirements

ALL applicants MUST submit a completed City of Minneapolis online application.

Resume
Individuals are encouraged to submit a resume in addition to the online application.

Cover Letter
Individuals are encouraged to submit a cover letter in addition to the online application. 
 
Work Location 
This position may be eligible for flexible work arrangements, including hybrid work with some days working remotely and some days working in the office. 

The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Interpret the terms of the MDHR settlement agreement and advise departments and individuals in the City on compliance requirements.
• Work with partners in the Minneapolis Police Department, Department of Civil Rights, and other departments to develop policy, training, plans, capabilities, and systems to accelerate public safety reform. 
• Research and advise on legal issues related to reform efforts; use innovative problem-solving skills and business judgment to resolve issues and minimize risk for the City. 
• Represent the City in court hearings and submissions related to the MDHR settlement agreement. 
• Work with the MDHR and the independent evaluator regarding compliance with the agreement.  
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal opinions on issues.
• Represent the City in federal and state trial and appellate courts and before administrative agencies.
• Represent the City at all stages of legal matters related to pattern and practice investigations and associated settlement agreements or consent decrees.
• Draft or review contracts and other legal documents.

Working Conditions
Office and courtroom. 

Required Qualifications

Minimum Education
The position has a minimum educational requirement of a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) plus Minnesota attorney licensure through the successful bar examination and current active bar membership.

Minimum Experience
Two or more years of relevant legal experience.

Licenses/Certifications
Minnesota attorney licensure is obtained through a successful bar examination and current active bar membership. 
 
Selection Process
The selection process will consist of one or more of the following steps: a rating of relevant education and experience and/or an oral examination (100%). It is important that your application show all the relevant education and experience you possess. This information will be used to determine which candidates will proceed in the selection process. A submitted application is also used to verify the answers to any supplemental questions. Only those candidates who attain a passing score (70%) on each step in the selection process will be placed on the eligible list. The City of Minneapolis Human Resources Department reserves the right to limit the number in any phase of the selection process.
 
Interview Selection
The hiring authority reserves the right to determine the maximum number of candidates to interview from the established eligible list.  If the hiring authority decides to interview other than by exam score order, they may select additional people to interview based on a candidate’s education or experience related to the field, work history, or skills uniquely related to the operational needs of the position.

• Writing Sample: 
  Individuals selected to interview will be requested to submit a sample of legal writing, including but not necessarily limited to an excerpt from a brief or memorandum, along with the required City application.

Background Check
The City has determined that a full, criminal background check (CJIS) and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title.  Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought.  Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.         

Union Representation
This position is represented by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Minneapolis and the AFSCME Attorneys Unit.

Eligible List Statement
The names of applicants who meet minimum qualification and who pass the screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration.  This list will be certified to the hiring manager who may use the list to fill a vacancy of the same job title. This eligible list will expire two months after it has been established. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Thorough understanding of relevant constitutional principles, including search and seizure, use of force, free speech and equal protection, the rules of civil procedure and the laws of evidence.
• Knowledge of municipal law, including home rule charter cities and legislative acts applicable to the City’s financial, organizational and functional procedures, local ordinances, state laws, established precedents and sources of legal reference.
• Knowledge of a wide range of legal issues and precedents pertinent to civil law.
• Ability to deal respectfully and effectively with people from all cultures.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Forty-five credits of continuing legal education courses every three years.

The following are desired: 

• Experience working with law enforcement or public safety agencies.
• Experience representing a public entity as a lawyer or student attorney.
• Jury or court trial experience, particularly in civil cases.
• Experience in researching and drafting legal memoranda and/or motions.

As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. Minneapolis has a large variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose—serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.

The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.