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- DESCRIPTION
- WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENTIN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.____________________________________________________________The City of Torrance recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to the City of Torrance today.
The City of Torrance invites your interest in the position of
DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY I
The current vacancy is in Criminal Prosecution.
Salary
$8,910 - $11,809X - $13,580 per month + Benefits
(Entry) (Ref. Pt.) (Max)
Appointment to the position is made between the entry and reference point depending on qualifications.
The DepartmentThe Office of the City Attorney advises and represents the City Council and City Departments on all legal matters in which they are involved, and prosecutes state law misdemeanors and Municipal Code violations that occur within the City of Torrance. To accomplish this goal, the office is organized across three divisions: Criminal Prosecution, Civil Litigation, and General Advice.City Attorney Patrick Q. Sullivan, Assistant City Attorney Tatia Y. Strader, and Law Office Administrator Jessica Corona manage the office that is steeped in tradition and encourages a collegiate environment with cohesive camaraderie. The Office is comprised of six Deputy City Attorneys, four Legal Assistants, and a Systems Analyst.
The current vacant position is in the Criminal Prosecution Division, which prosecutes, on behalf of the People of the State of California, state law misdemeanors that occur with in the City of Torrance. Such crimes typically include domestic violence, driving under the influence, drug possession and theft related violations. In addition, the Division prosecutes violations of the Torrance Municipal Code.
The PositionThe City of Torrance is seeking a motivated legal professional to serve as a Deputy City Attorney I. Under supervision, the Deputy City Attorney I conducts legal research and analysis, drafts and reviews a variety of legal documents, and provides guidance to City staff and officials. The role also includes prosecuting infractions and misdemeanors, managing civil and administrative cases, and representing the City in hearings and court proceedings. The incumbent collaborates with internal and external stakeholders, supports decision-making through legal analysis, and maintains effective case management practices.
Some key duties/responsibilities for the Prosecution Division include:- Review police reports, citations, and investigative materials to determine the sufficiency of evidence and appropriate filing of criminal complaints.
- Prosecute infractions and misdemeanors, including conducting arraignments, pretrial conferences, motions, trials, and appeals.
- Prepare cases for prosecution by interviewing witnesses, evaluating evidence, and developing effective case strategies.
- Represent the City of Torrance in court proceedings and collaborate with law enforcement personnel and other justice system partners.
- Negotiate case resolutions, including plea agreements, in accordance with applicable laws and City policies.
- Maintain accurate case files, manage court calendars, and ensure timely and efficient case processing.
- Exceptional work ethic and dedication to providing justice.
For more information about the duties of the position, click here.Typical office hours include a 9/80 compressed work week schedule from Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., closed on alternate Fridays. Staff is also required to work some off Fridays, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as necessary in order to complete various duties.
The City offers ample opportunities for career growth throughout the organization with its 14 departments, which work together to provide quality service, enriching programs, and exciting events to keep the community safe and thriving. The City also proudly offers exceptional employee benefits and perks! Please click here for more information on Employee Benefits, Discounts, & Incentives! - QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES
Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills would be:
Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor degree.
No experience is required. Prior externship or legal clerking experience is desirable. (see successful candidate for type of experience)
Familiarity with the following is desirable; Lexis, Westlaw or other computer-assisted legal research services; Windows; Microsoft Office software, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Powerpoint.
License and/or Certificates
A valid California Driver's License of the appropriate class or grade may be required depending upon position assignment.
Active membership in the State Bar of California is required.
Successful candidates will possess the following:- Prior Criminal Law externship or legal clerking experience is desirable. Mock trial or trial advocacy experience is preferred.
- Strong analytical and legal reasoning skills with the ability to evaluate evidence, identify key issues, and develop effective prosecution strategies.
- Effective oral advocacy and courtroom presence, with the ability to present arguments clearly, confidently, and persuasively.
- Excellent written communication skills for drafting pleadings, motions, and legal correspondence with clarity and precision.
- Sound judgment and ethical integrity, particularly when making charging decisions and negotiating case resolutions.
- Ability to manage a high-volume caseload, prioritize tasks, and meet strict court deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Collaborative mindset and professionalism, with the ability to work effectively with law enforcement, court personnel, City staff, and the public.
- HOW TO APPLY & EXAM PROCESS
- Interested candidates must submit an online application and supplemental questionnaire at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. First review of applications will be those received by June 7, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Application submission will remain open until the position is filled. If a sufficient number of qualified applications are received by the first review date, there is a possibility that the recruitment may close at that time.Only those candidates who best meet the City and Department's needs will be invited to participate in the examination process which will consist of the following components:
Panel Interview: Weighted 100% (Tentatively scheduled on June 17, 2026.)The tentative test dates will be based on a sufficient number of qualified applications received by the first review date. If a sufficient number of applications are not received by the first review date, there is the possibility that the test date may change to a later date. - SPECIAL NOTES
Visit www.TorranceCA.Gov to find out more information about the City of Torrance.
Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Human Resources prior to the examination date(s). If you have a disability for which you require an accommodation, please contact us at (310) 618-2915 prior to the test date.
As a condition of employment, candidates must pass a background check.
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.City of Torrance Inclusion StatementThe City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!
- $106,920 - $162,960/year
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