Go Back
The City of Charlottesville is seeking an experienced, trusted legal advisor to serve as its next City Attorney. The next City Attorney will serve a community that strives to solve community issues with creativity and innovation and needs a strategic legal advisor who can help guide this in a lawful and thoughtful manner. The City Attorney reports to the City Manager, and advises the City Council, City leadership, and boards and commission. The City Attorney leads a talented staff and will be able to build on that talent by hiring a Chief Deputy Attorney to complement the existing team.
The position provides functional supervision for legal action involving the City, the interpretation and application of laws and ordinances affecting the City, and the preparation of legal documents and legal opinions for the City of Charlottesville. The City Attorney attends all City Council meetings, provides legal advice and appropriate information when necessary, and serves as staff on a variety of board, commission, and other professional meetings. The City Attorney provides legal advice to department heads regarding the City's application of federal, state, and local employment laws and is responsible for legal review and approval of City personnel policies and practices. As the City’s chief legal counsel, the City Attorney supervises the legal affairs of the City, including planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating the best way to provide legal services.
The City Attorney supervises the drafting of ordinances, resolutions, contracts, deeds, leases, releases, franchises, and other legal documents on behalf of the City. Additionally, the City Attorney serves as a legislative liaison with state and federal governments, prepares drafts of bills for the Virginia General Assembly, and analyzes legislation affecting the City. They also negotiate contracts, supervise land transactions, prosecute suits, and litigate claims against the City. The City Attorney researches, interprets, and applies laws, court decisions, and other legal authority in the preparation of opinions and briefs, and reviews the legality and sufficiency of various legal documents.
Furthermore, the City Attorney oversees and coordinates investigations and audits related to City legal programs and matters, provides daily legal advice to City officers, departments, and agencies, and defends City employees in actions brought against them for conduct while in the line of duty. They stay abreast of new trends and innovations in public law, maintain proficiency in municipal law through training and professional resources, and respond to and resolve difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints. The City Attorney also conducts title searches, certifies titles, handles closings, and decides major legal questions in litigation, claims, leases, contracts, and land titles. They ensure the City's interests are represented in various contract negotiations and may perform other duties as required by ordinance, resolution, or City Council. The City Attorney prepares and/or reviews all City ordinances and is responsible for ensuring that the City Code is up-to-current. They also prepare and/or review all Standard Operating Procedures. The City Attorney manages and participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned programs; recommends and administers policies and procedures.
The City Attorney reports to the City Manager and has high interaction with the Council. The City Attorney assumes management responsibility for assigned services and activities, plans, directs, coordinates, and reviews the work plan for direct reports, assigns work activities, projects, and programs, and reviews and evaluates work products, methods, and procedures. They also meet with staff to identify and resolve problems, monitor and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures, and recommend appropriate service and staffing levels within departmental policy.
Additionally, the City Attorney hires, supervises, coaches, mentors, and trains assigned City staff, providing career development and appropriate performance management and corrective action as necessary. They prepare and monitor the departmental budget and oversee and authorize expenditures. The office structure and responsibilities are designed to ensure efficient and effective service delivery, with a focus on improving processes and systems across departments. The City Attorney's role is crucial in maintaining the legal and administrative functions of the City, ensuring that all legal matters are handled proficiently and in accordance with the law.
Priorities
- Foster an environment of collaboration by building positive relationships with the City Manager, Deputy City Managers, City Council, department directors, City Attorney’s office staff, and other key staff in the City
- Enhance customer service to departments by providing timely and clear legal advice while ensuring that departments are informed about the status and timeline of their legal requests utilizing an existing workflow tool.
- Provide strategic legal advice on major city initiatives, including land use, social services, and collective bargaining.
- Round out the City Attorney’s office team by filling Chief Deputy Attorney vacancy, aligning staff to needs of the organization and strategic goals, and identifying gaps where outside counsel should be utilized, or where currently outsourced activities should be insourced.
The Successful Candidate
The ideal City Attorney will bring extensive experience and a strategic mindset, particularly with a background in Virginia law in a Dillon rule environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to build the office, define the team and operate like a law firm that supports and partners with City leadership. The successful candidate will be a legal strategist focused on improving operations and providing excellent customer service to departments, with high interaction with the Council. Key traits include strong leadership, management, communication, transparency, collaboration, relationship-building, and unimpeachable ethics. The successful candidate will be a team player, non-political but politically savvy, and have the City’s best interest. They will combine confidence and openness to innovative solutions with the ability to ensure the City is on sound legal footing.
The next City Attorney will be highly proficient in delegating work, building teams, and helping team members grow their legal skills. They will optimize the skills and contributions of others and create an environment that encourages sharing expertise and providing feedback regularly. They will mentor attorneys and legal staff, provide direction, encourage professional development, and respect them as professionals.
The City Attorney will possess comprehensive knowledge of complex legal principles and practices, including statutory, civil, contract, and administrative laws. They will understand municipal government functions and legal issues, such as City ordinances, the City Charter, and the City Code and have familiarity with Virginia land use law, administrative procedures, and labor laws. The successful candidate will have a deep knowledge of legal research methods and the preparation of legal documents, along with knowledge of financing land acquisitions, trades, and public-private partnerships. Additionally, knowledge of public budget administration, program planning, and financial management principles is also necessary for the ideal candidate to possess. They will be able to communicate effectively with the public, members of outside agencies, and employees, and establish effective working relationships with various stakeholders.
The ability to form team environments, build morale, increase productivity, and meet goals using strategic negotiation techniques is vital for the successful candidate to excel at. The next City Attorney will defuse difficult situations with tact and courtesy, using appropriate mediation and conflict management techniques. They will stay updated on legislative changes and best practices, and interpret and apply relevant codes, policies, laws, and regulations. The City Attorney will be an effective communicator who can explain complex legal matters to an audient of experts and those who are not familiar with the law.
The ideal City Attorney will possess extensive legal expertise, including knowledge in land use law, union/labor experience, sustainability, land acquisition, grants work, contracts, public records and open meetings, and transactional law. The City Attorney should excel in problem-solving and strategy, partnering with City leadership on solutions to execute creative ideas to complex issues.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include graduation from an accredited law school of recognized standing with a juris doctorate and a minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in the practice of law with management and supervisory experience. Applicants must also be a member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar or be eligible to practice law in Virginia upon appointment.
Preferred qualifications include five (5) or more years of active legal experience in the practice of municipal law, including providing clear legal advice in land use, contracts, employment, legislative, public records and meeting, and public finance. A successful track record as a City or County Attorney, Deputy/Assistant Attorney, or experience in a private law firm advising City/County clients is preferred.
Residency is not required. Attendance at City Council and other evening meetings and working in the office is required. This is not a remote-work position.
Inside The City of Charlottesville
Charlottesville operates under a Council-Manager form of government. Charlottesville voters elect five at-large members to serve as the City’s legislative and governing body, City Council. The members serve four-year terms, and they vote to select one Councilor to serve as Mayor and one as Vice Mayor for two years. Municipal elections are held in November in odd-numbered years. The terms of Council members are staggered so that three are elected in one year and two are elected two years later. If a vacancy occurs, Council elects a new member to serve out the unexpired term.
Inside the City Attorney’s Office
The City Attorney’s Office in Charlottesville plays a crucial role in providing legal advice and representation to various City entities. This includes the Airport Authority, all City departments and employees, the Charlottesville Industrial Development Authority, the City as a corporate entity, City Council, the City Manager, the Planning Commission, and the Retirement Commission. The office is responsible for drafting resolutions and ordinances for City Council consideration, reviewing contracts, issuing opinions on zoning, procurement, and personnel matters, and responding to inquiries under the Freedom of Information Act. The office includes the City Attorney, Chief Deputy City Attorney, four Deputy City Attorneys, a paralegal and two administrative support staff. The next City Attorney has an opportunity to build on the existing strong team by filling two vacant attorney positions and one legal support position. The office has a budget of $1.4 million for FY2025.
In addition to these responsibilities, the City Attorney’s Office handles certain types of litigation, risk management, and real estate matters. The office is not permitted to give advice about personal or private legal problems of citizens but can answer legal questions related to City activities, including the interpretation of the City Code. The office also drafts and reviews policies and agreements, such as the Cable Franchise Agreement and the Policy for the Sale of City-Owned Property. Responsibilities also include collective bargaining, investigations, and determining what legal services should be contracted to outside counsel.
Mission: The mission of the City Attorney’s Office is to advance the City Council’s vision and priorities through the law and to reduce the risk of legal liability through advance planning and prevention.
Vision: The vision of the City Attorney’s Office is to provide first-class legal services to the City Council and City Manager. The office aims to maintain a strategic vision consistent with City Council’s goals and objectives, have a clear and focused role in the City organization, have a structured set of objectives, be an integral part of the City’s decision-making strategy, be perceived as a strategic resource, and add value to City Council and staff.
Values: The values of the City Attorney’s Office include Clarity, Candor, Diligence, and Competence.
The Community
Nestled in the upper Piedmont Plateau at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and near the headwaters of the Rivanna River, Charlottesville is situated in West Central Virginia. Located about 120 miles southwest of Washington, D.C., and 70 miles northwest of Richmond, Virginia, Charlottesville was founded as a town in 1762 by the Virginia General Assembly and became an independent city in 1888. Following eight annexations, the latest occurring in 1968, the City covers an area of 10.4 square miles.
Charlottesville is home to more than 51,000 people, characterized by a mix of students, families, and professionals. The City's diversity is reflected in its various neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. From the historic downtown area, filled with shops and restaurants, to the more suburban settings of areas like North Downtown and the Ivy neighborhood, there is something for everyone. The City's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement fosters a welcoming atmosphere, making it an appealing destination for individuals from various backgrounds.
Charlottesville is also known for its excellent school system, which includes both public and private options. The Charlottesville City Schools district is recognized for its strong academic performance and commitment to fostering a well-rounded education. The City is notably home to the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, which infuses the area with a youthful energy and contributes to its diverse population and not only drives education-related jobs but also stimulates research and development initiatives that contribute to the local economy.
Beyond education, the City is a hub for arts and culture, featuring a plethora of galleries, theaters, and music venues. The annual Virginia Film Festival and various art walks highlight the community’s dedication to the arts, showcasing local talent from across the region. Known for its picturesque landscapes and historic significance, Charlottesville boasts a unique charm that attracts residents and visitors alike.
Recreation plays a significant role in the community, with numerous parks and outdoor spaces available for residents to enjoy. The City's location near the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. Within the City, parks like the expansive McIntire Park provide green spaces for sports, picnics, and community events. The emphasis on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through outdoor recreation enhances the quality of life for Charlottesville residents.
The City has garnered recognition for its livability and quality of life, consistently ranking high in various community ratings and awards. With its blend of historic charm, cultural vibrancy, and strong community values, Charlottesville remains a sought-after place to call home.
Quick Facts
- Population: 51,000
- Median Household Income: 67,177
- Median Home Value: 398,400
- Median Age: 39
All demographic information was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau except the population which was sourced from the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Policy (UVA)
Compensation and Benefits
The expected hiring range is $195,000-$225,000 depending on qualifications, with an excellent benefits package. Learn more about our options and employee-based benefits here.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning January 6, 2025.
Questions
Please direct questions to Catherine Tuck Parrish at ctuckparrish@raftelis.com and Robert Colichio at rcolichio@raftelis.com.
RECRUITMENT BROCHURE
Salary- $195,000 - $225,000
