Description:
We are seeking a motivated Municipal Law Associate to join our public-entity practice group. The successful candidate will provide practical, responsive legal counsel to municipalities, public authorities and other governmental clients on land use, zoning, eminent domain and related municipal law matters. This role combines transactional and litigation work and is ideal for an attorney who enjoys serving public clients, managing cases from intake through resolution, and collaborating with local officials and internal teams to advance community objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Advise municipalities, public entities and elected officials on land use, zoning, permitting, development agreements and municipal regulatory matters.
- Handle eminent domain matters, including acquisition negotiations, condemnation litigation, title review and settlement strategy.
- Represent clients in administrative hearings, zoning boards, planning commissions, and in state or federal court as needed.
- Draft and review ordinances, resolutions, intergovernmental agreements, contracts, easements and related municipal documents.
- Conduct legal research, prepare pleadings, motions, briefs, and business correspondence; develop litigation strategy and manage case calendars.
- Counsel clients on regulatory compliance, risk management and statutory requirements affecting public entities.
- Negotiate settlements and development conditions with private developers, property owners and other stakeholders.
- Supervise and mentor junior attorneys and paralegals; collaborate with colleagues across practice areas to deliver integrated client service.
- Assist with client development, proposals and public outreach where appropriate.
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active bar admission in the state (or ability to obtain admission).
- 1+ years of experience as an attorney with substantive municipal law experience
- Demonstrated experience in land use and zoning matters, including permitting, site plan review and administrative hearings.
- Experience with eminent domain and condemnation matters, including negotiation and litigation experience preferred.
- Strong legal research, writing and oral advocacy skills; courtroom and administrative hearing experience a plus.
- Experience representing or advising public entities, municipalities, planning boards, or public authorities is highly desirable.
- Ability to manage multiple matters, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively with elected officials, municipal staff and non-legal stakeholders.
- Professional demeanor, strong ethics and commitment to public service; experience supervising junior staff or supervising caseloads preferred.
- Valid drivers license and ability to attend client meetings and site visits as needed.