Assistant State Attorney Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

City of Hobart, Indiana
Job Description: Assistant City Attorney
Department: Office of the City Attorney
Classification: Full-Time / Exempt
Reports To: City Attorney
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The Assistant City Attorney provides professional legal counsel and representation to the City of Hobart, its departments, boards, commissions, and officials. Under the direction of the City Attorney, this position handles a broad range of municipal legal matters, assists in drafting and reviewing legal documents, and represents the City in administrative and judicial proceedings. The Assistant City Attorney plays a key role in ensuring that city operations are conducted in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local law.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide legal advice and guidance to City departments, elected officials, and staff on matters including municipal law, land use, zoning, contracts, employment, public finance, and civil rights.
- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, ordinances, resolutions, interlocal agreements, and other legal documents on behalf of the City.
- Assist in representation the City of Hobart in state and federal courts, as well as before administrative agencies, boards, and commissions.
- Assist in the defense of civil litigation involving the City, including coordination with outside counsel when necessary.
- Conduct legal research and prepare written legal opinions, memoranda, and briefings.
- Advise on compliance with Indiana statutes, including the Indiana Open Door Law (IC 5-14-1.5), Access to Public Records Act (IC 5-14-3), and other applicable laws governing municipalities.
- Support the City Council and Mayor's office with legislative drafting and interpretation of City Code.
- Assist in matters related to public safety, code enforcement, and municipal violations.
- Review and advise on risk management issues, insurance claims, and liability exposure.
- Maintain current knowledge of relevant case law, legislation, and regulatory changes affecting municipal operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the City Attorney.
Minimum Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
- Active license to practice law in the State of Indiana, in good standing with the Indiana Supreme Court.
- Minimum of one (1) to three (3) years of legal experience; municipal, government, or public sector experience preferred.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Indiana municipal law, administrative law, and civil procedure.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience working for a municipality, county government, or state agency.
- Experience in land use, zoning, employment law, or public finance.
- Familiarity with Lake County, Indiana local government and court systems.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal matters clearly to non-attorneys.
- Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced government environment.
- Sound judgment, discretion, and professional integrity.
- Proficiency in legal research tools (Westlaw, LexisNexis, or equivalent).
- Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with elected officials.
- Commitment to public service and the interests of the Hobart community.
Working Conditions
- Work is primarily performed in an office setting at the Hobart Police Court Complex.
- Occasional travel to courts, administrative hearings, and meetings within Lake County and the State of Indiana.
- Evening attendance may be required for City meetings or other public proceedings.
Compensation and Benefits
The City of Hobart offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and life insurance, PERF (Public Employees' Retirement Fund) enrollment, paid time off, and observed holidays.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample detailing their qualifications and experience to hr@cityofhobart.org or through LinkedIn.
*The City of Hobart is an Equal Opportunity Employer. *
*This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. *