Local Government Law and Litigation Attorney

Job Overview

A law firm seeks a skilled and motivated attorney with experience in local governmental law and litigation to join their legal team in Winter Park, FL. This role involves providing legal counsel on municipal law and litigation matters, working closely with internal teams, public officials, and outside counsel on complex legal issues impacting community development and local operations.

Duties

• Provide legal advice on local government matters, including compliance with municipal regulations and ordinance drafting.
• Advise on public records laws, Sunshine Law, ethics laws, public procurement, contract drafting and review, and intergovernmental agreements.
• Advise on comprehensive planning, zoning, land use, permitting, and development issues.
• Represent municipal boards and commissions at quasi-judicial hearings and public meetings.
• Defend petitions for writ of certiorari and appeals filed against municipalities concerning quasi-judicial decisions.
• Engage in civil litigation, including drafting and responding to discovery, motions, and pleadings.

Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to the Florida Bar (or ability to become admitted in a reasonable time frame).
• 2-7 years of relevant legal experience, preferably including municipal or local government law and litigation.
• Strong knowledge of Florida law pertaining to municipal government, including Sunshine Law, public procurement, and land use and zoning law.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work well with clients and team members.
• Understanding and willingness to work full-time in the office.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience working with or for local government entities (e.g., city attorney's office, county agencies, or special districts).
• Familiarity with land use, zoning, planning, plating, development review processes, code enforcement, Sunshine, public records and ethics laws, public procurement, and contract drafting and review.