Assistant City Attorney II – Litigation - job 1 of 2

As an Assistant City Attorney II – Litigation with the City of Fort Worth, your primary responsibilities encompass a diverse range of legal tasks. You will represent the city in litigation, prepare legal documents, conduct research, and participate in hearings and trials. Additionally, you’ll provide legal counsel on various issues, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and addressing citizen complaints. This role is pivotal in shaping policies and legal opinions for the city while coordinating activities with other departments and outside agencies.

To qualify for the Assistant City Attorney II – Litigation position at the City of Fort Worth, candidates must possess a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school, along with at least five years of relevant experience in city or government law, including trial experience. Additionally, applicants must hold a Texas law license from the Supreme Court of Texas. Having a strong background in litigation and local governance is essential for this role.

The City Attorney’s Office in Fort Worth promotes a collaborative and supportive work environment. As an Assistant City Attorney II – Litigation, you will find a culture that values mentorship, professional development, and diversity while emphasizing work-life balance. This collegial atmosphere fosters a positive workplace where attorneys can develop their skills and make meaningful contributions to the community they serve.

The City of Fort Worth offers a competitive benefits package for the Assistant City Attorney II – Litigation position, including 11 paid holidays, medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, and a pension plan. Additionally, opportunities for professional development and continuous training are provided, allowing you to grow in your legal career while maintaining a culture of well-being and respect among colleagues.

The City of Fort Worth is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. As an Assistant City Attorney II – Litigation, you will be part of an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) workplace that actively recruits, hires, and promotes individuals without regard to race, gender, or any other non-merit factor. The City’s dedication to diversity ensures a respectful and welcoming environment where all employees have the opportunity to thrive.

When answering this question, highlight your specific experiences handling civil litigation cases, including details about the types of cases you've worked on, your role in those cases, and any successful outcomes. Discuss any unique techniques or strategies you employed to navigate complex legal issues, as this shows your capability and adaptability in a courtroom setting.

In your response, emphasize qualities such as strong analytical skills, effective communication, and a commitment to public service. Discuss your ability to maintain professionalism in challenging situations and your capability to work collaboratively with clients and colleagues, as these traits are crucial for success in a city attorney role.

Share your methodology for legal research and fact investigation, highlighting the resources you utilize, such as legal databases or public records. Discuss your analytical skills and experience in evaluating information to formulate legal strategies. This demonstrates your preparedness to handle the rigorous legal demands of the position.

When responding, describe your process for staying updated on local, state, and federal laws relevant to city operations. Emphasize your attention to detail and your proactive approach to identifying potential compliance issues before they arise, showcasing your commitment to upholding community standards and legal obligations.

Explain your approach to understanding and resolving citizen complaints, including communication strategies and the steps you would follow to investigate and address their concerns. Highlight your dedication to transparency and responsiveness, as this reflects well on the city's legal team and reinforces trust within the community.

Use this opportunity to discuss a specific case, detailing the challenges faced and the steps you took to resolve them. Highlight your problem-solving skills and any creative solutions you applied. Conclude with the positive outcome to demonstrate your effectiveness as a litigator.

Clarify your familiarity with various administrative proceedings, including Workers’ Compensation hearings and civil service disciplinary hearings. Discuss any relevant experience you have in representing clients in these venues and the unique legal considerations that must be taken into account.

Focus on your time management and organizational skills when addressing this question. Discuss specific strategies you use to prioritize tasks based on deadlines and the complexity of cases. Provide examples of how you ensure efficient workflow without compromising the quality of your work.

Describe your philosophy on collaboration and teamwork within the legal profession. Share your experiences working with colleagues, other departments, or external partners, and emphasize how clear communication and shared goals contribute to successful legal outcomes.

Tailor your answer to express your enthusiasm for public service and your dedication to serving the Fort Worth community. Discuss what attracts you to this particular role and how your personal values align with the mission and vision of the City Attorney’s Office.