What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part-Time City Prosecutor position at City of Wheat Ridge?
The City of Wheat Ridge is seeking a part-time, contracted attorney or law firm to perform City Prosecution Services. The City Prosecutor provides professional legal services on behalf of the City, focusing primarily on municipal court prosecution, code enforcement, nuisance and code abatement, and certain administrative hearings. This position conducts legal research, prepares and reviews legal documents, prosecutes ordinance violations, initiates, manages, and litigates abatement cases, and handles any matter arising out of Municipal Court proceedings. The City Prosecutor works closely with the City Attorney, City departments, law enforcement personnel, and other agencies to ensure consistent enforcement of the City's codes and ordinances. Optional paralegal support may be available for case preparation, discovery, subpoenas, and related tasks. Prosecutors may choose to utilize this support or perform these functions independently.
The City Prosecutor shall be responsible for:
• Prosecutes all alleged violations of the City Code in Municipal Court, including arraignments , pretrials, motions, trials, sentencing, and post-judgment matters; handles appeals of cases that come out of Municipal Court, unless otherwise directed by the City Attorney
• Manages abatement cases, including nuisance and property maintenance enforcement.
• Represents the City in administrative hearing cases involving code violations and those administrative hearings which arise from Chapters 2 and 15 of the City Code.
• Conducts legal research; prepares legal memoranda, pleadings, and related documents.
• Advises City departments, Police, and Code Enforcement staff on enforcement procedures and legal requirements.
• Communicates with defendants and their counsel as needed.
• Maintains knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
The following minimum qualifications are required:
• Licensed to practice law in the state.
• Experience in municipal prosecution, criminal law, or code enforcement preferred.
• Strong courtroom advocacy, legal writing, and research skills.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with City staff and the public.
This position is filled as part of the City's procurement process. Applicants must submit an RFP to apply. Please contact wmsmith@wheatridge.gov for any questions.