Assistant City Solicitor – Right-to-Know Unit

The City of Philadelphia Law Department seeks an Assistant City Solicitor for the Compliance & Legislation Group's Right to Know Unit. Responsibilities include advising all City departments, offices, and boards on responding to Right to Know Law requests, appeals, and other legal issues concerning the Right to Know Law and various other laws concerning privacy, confidentiality, and the release of public records. The division also provides guidance on record retention in coordination with the primary Law Department division that represents a particular department and the Litigation Unit. This position is designated as fully onsite, and employees are expected to report in person five (5) days per week, in accordance with the City Policy.

Responsibilities

Advising and representing the City of Philadelphia in all matters relating to the Right-to-Know Law and other related laws; Working closely with clients to assure compliance with applicable law; Communicating with City business stakeholders, subject matter experts, vendors, and others regarding release of public City records; Reviewing records and providing legal advice on the public release of records; Researching issues and drafting memoranda and other documents; Representing the City on appeals of Right-to-Know Law requests and related litigation; Advising the City on document-retention matters; Interpreting City, State, and Federal laws, rulings, and regulations; Reviewing and updating form and training documents; Training City employees, officials, and Open Records Officers on compliance with the Right-to-Know Law; Negotiating, reviewing, and drafting settlement and confidentiality agreements; Performing administrative functions related to the practice of law

Requirements

Law degree from an ABA accredited law school; Member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204); Must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire; Continued employment of attorneys not admitted to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania within six (6) months of hire is at the discretion of the Law Department

Nice to have

One (1) year plus of relevant experience within a legal setting; Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; Excellent research and writing skills; Persuasive writing, legal writing, oral advocacy, and negotiation skills; Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work on teams; Commitment to diversity

Benefits

Unlimited free public transportation through SEPTA Key Advantage program; 8 weeks of paid parental leave; Comprehensive health coverage for employees and eligible dependents; Wellness program with eligibility for discounted medical plan; Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; Generous retirement savings options; Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness program; Tuition discounts and scholarships of 10% to 40% at partner colleges and universities