Assistant Solicitor -
Police Legal Affairs
Overview
The Office of Legal Affairs provides legal advice and handles all legal matters for the Police Department (BPD). It defends the Department and its members in civil litigation in both Federal and State courts. It also represents the BPD in internal employee disciplinary proceedings, forfeiture hearings, and a variety of other matters. Legal Affairs provides legal advice and contract review, as well as oversight for the Police Department's Public Information Act requests and its subpoena requests. It also engages in preventive lawyering by analyzing trends in liability findings and advising the BPD concerning risks of future litigation and liability.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (not inclusive)
- Litigate before state, federal, and appellate courts, as well as administrative agencies, internal disciplinary boards, and arbitrators.
- Perform legal research and provide legal and regulatory advice to the BPD.
- Draft and prepare various legal documents.
- Advise and inform superiors on the status of hearings/trial proceedings, and obstacles.
- Negotiate settlements on behalf of the City.
Relevant Knowledge and Skills
- Working knowledge of Maryland Code and Rules.
- Working knowledge of Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and relevant federal statutes.
- Working knowledge of appropriate Baltimore City Code and Charter provisions.
- Strong legal research and analytical skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills required to work with the public and various units of BPD.
- Ability to prepare and litigate cases of varying complexity.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to handle large caseloads and juggle multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Strong technology skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office software and legal research platforms such as Westlaw.
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
Education & Experience Requirements
- A law degree from an accredited law school.
- At least three (3) years of litigation and strong trial experience, legal writing and/or municipal law and practice before Circuit and District courts.
- A background in criminal law, labor and employment, police disciplinary hearings or police litigation is highly desirable.
License, Registration & Certificate Requirements
- Admission to the Bar of the State of Maryland is required.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $70,276 - $112,293 and is commensurate with education and experience and includes an excellent benefits package.
To Apply
Qualified individuals should submit a
detailed resume and cover letter to: law.hiring@baltimorecity.gov.
NOTE: Candidates under final consideration will be required to undergo and pass a background check and drug/alcohol test.