About Us
The Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney is one of the nation's largest municipal law offices. With over 1,000 legal professionals, including 500 attorneys, the Office provides the City of Los Angeles (“City”) with the highest caliber of legal services, ranging from prosecuting criminal misdemeanors and playing a leading role in criminal justice reform to advising on homelessness initiatives, defending civil lawsuits and claims, and bringing civil enforcement actions in the name of the People of the State of California.
Guided by an overarching commitment to integrity, service and accountability, we find great meaning in the work we do and the services we provide. We seek collaborative team players who understand that fulfilling our mission is key to making a positive impact.
Description
The General Litigation Division defends the City of Los Angeles and its employees in civil tort litigation, particularly in wrongful death and personal injury damages actions. The cases typically involve allegations of a dangerous condition of public property or allegations of negligent conduct by the City or its employees. The dangerous condition matters include roadway design, crosswalk placement and condition, sidewalk and roadway conditions, and a variety of traffic control installations involving traffic engineering principles. There are often significant issues relating to governmental immunities and other defenses warranting dispositive motions. The litigation primarily involves State Court litigation in Superior Courts throughout Los Angeles County, but occasionally involves lawsuits venued in surrounding counties or Federal Court.
Duties and Responsibilities
The attorney occupying this position will be responsible for analyzing claims and lawsuits to give advice and negotiate early settlements. The attorney will also be responsible for legal research and law and motion support. The primary focus will be crafting dispositive motions, although other law and motion practice, including discovery motions, motions in limine, and post-trial motions, will be involved as well. Consulting with the trial deputies, appellate attorneys, and management concerning legal and settlement strategy will also be a job responsibility at all stages from claim to trial.
Requirements
Must be licensed to practice law in all courts in the State of California. Additional required qualifications include:
• Three years civil litigation experience;
• Demonstrated experience in negotiation of claims and lawsuits;
• A sincere desire to vigorously defend the City through thoughtful, well written and well researched law and motion practice;
• Strong oral communication, writing, and advocacy skills; and
• The ability to exercise sound judgment.
Desired Qualifications
The following qualifications are highly desirable:
• Experience in governmental tort litigation;
• Familiarity with governmental immunities and defenses commonly applicable to the governmental entities;
• Experience in law and motion and/or appellate advocacy;
• Knowledge of medical conditions and terminology; and
• Licensed to practice law in the United States District Court for the Central District of California.
Requirements for Application
• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Candidates are required to submit two recent writing samples personally authored in the last two years.
