Alternate Municipal Court Judge

Summary: Under general supervision, serves as City Magistrate on some weekends, holidays, and other times as needed. On an as-needed basis, interprets, applies, and enforces criminal law in the Odessa Municipal Court and presides over court cases. Performs judicial duties according to state and federal laws and City ordinances.

Essential Functions: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties that are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Serves as City Magistrate on an alternating weekend and holiday schedule and, on a rare occasion, weekdays if available.
• Presides over court proceedings in Municipal Court and performs the full duties of the office as defined by law if needed.
• Exercises independent judgment within specific legal guidelines; assures official Municipal Court activities are in compliance with federal and state laws and City policies and goals.
• Monitors changes in state and federal regulations, standards, and legislation governing municipalities.
• Supports the divisional operations with regular and timely attendance.
• Must have and maintain a cell phone for City use to hold this position.
• Supports the relationship between the City of Odessa and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines: A Juris Doctorate Degree is required, AND five years' experience in a public sector legal practice, including experience with criminal and civil law in the state of Texas.

Knowledge of:

• Duties, powers, authorities, and limitations of a Municipal Court Judge.
• State of Texas criminal and civil statutes, rules, administrative orders, policies and procedures, and applicable Federal rules and regulations.
• Texas judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Principles and protocols for the evidentiary gathering of information, documents, financial records and other data that may be used in court and legal hearings.
• Legal case management procedures, ethics, and techniques.
• Principles and practices of legal, ethical, and professional rules of conduct.
• Current political and economic trends in municipal, state, and federal government.
• Local community issues and regional community resources available to citizens.

Skill in:

• Reviewing and assessing legal issues and applying justice in a fair, equitable, and expedient manner.
• Listening, researching, analyzing, interpreting, and making case determinations in accordance with judicial procedures and practices.
• Drafting and presenting oral and written instructions.
• Reviewing, understanding, interpreting, and analyzing complex civil and criminal laws and regulations.
• Assessing the veracity of defendants and applying justice in a fair and equitable manner.
• Applying legal and psychological concepts in the administration of justice.
• Reviewing and assessing legal issues and documents.
• Using initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships and open communications with City employees, law enforcement agencies, court and justice system representatives, and advocate groups.
• Operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of business and specialized software.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

License and certification requirements: A valid Texas State Driver's License is required. Must be a member of the Texas State Bar Association, licensed to practice law in the state of Texas, and remain active with all Texas Bar annual requirements and Judicial Education requirements.

Physical demands and working environment: Work is performed in a standard office environment.

Other: Residency within the City during tenure of office is mandatory

I have received, reviewed and fully understand the job description for Associate/Alternate Municipal Court Judge. I further understand that I am responsible for the satisfactory execution of the essential functions described therein, under any and all conditions as described.