City Code Enforcement Prosecutor

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a professional position that manages the prosecution of all violations of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Binghamton and New York State law, as applicable, and where the City has jurisdiction. The work involves responsibility for participating in investigations, preparation and presentation in court of violations and/or misdemeanor cases. This attorney will also lead interdepartmental investigations of unsafe property conditions in violation of City and State laws. The position may also make referrals for criminal prosecution or civil actions to applicable state and federal enforcement agencies. The work is performed under the general supervision of the City's Corporation Counsel and in daily collaboration with the City's Department of Building Construction & Code Enforcement, and any other applicable departments.

The duties of this class are highly professional in nature consisting of assisting the Corporation Counsel and may include, rendering legal counsel to the Mayor and/or to the City Council. The work calls for a great deal of legal expertise as well as independent judgment and discretion. The incumbent may give direct supervision to the clerical staff of the Department if needed. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: Works with Code Enforcement Officers, Fire Marshal, Police Officers, Animal Control Officer and other City staff to render legal advice, assist in investigations, coordinate activities on particular cases. Works in City Court, or any other appropriate court, to handle violations and misdemeanors, rendering legal advice to, preparing for judicial proceedings and making bail recommendations. Prepares cases for Court, including marshaling and evaluating evidence, statements, photographs, and reports; and by drafting and producing all mandatory disclosures. Prepares cases for trial by responding to motions, preparing for hearings, evaluating case, plea-bargaining and discussing case with Corporation Counsel. Brings related civil actions as may be required. Handles appeals by preparing brief, appendix and trial record, preparing response to defendants brief, arguing appeal in Appellate Division, and seeking permission to Court of Appeals if not a matter of right. Responds to telephone calls from citizens, City departments, and law enforcement agencies. Handles enforcement of code provisions relating to fire damages and/or dangerous structures. May be appointed to serve as a hearing officer for a variety of issues, including condemnation, water shut offs, billing disputes and union matters.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Good knowledge of criminal or municipal law and court proceedings. Ability to interpret and work with the City's Code of Ordinances, New York State and Federal laws and criminal code. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing. Ability to reason quickly and logically in stressful situations. Ability to analyze and organize effectively. Ability to establish and maintain good interpersonal working relations. Ability to maintain high levels of confidentiality on controversial cases; integrity; excellent judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Familiarity with the principles and practices of common law and of City, State and Federal laws, especially in fields of Criminal and Municipal Corporation Law; familiarity with of civil court procedures and of the rules of evidence; familiarity with the general workings and activities of municipal government; skill in preparing drafts of legal instructions; ability to analyze and apply legal principles, facts and precedents to legal problems; ability to plan and supervise work of subordinates; ability to speak clearly and effectively; initiative; good independent and professional judgment in carrying out duties; diplomacy; tact; ability to operate a personal computer and utilize common office software programs including word processing, spreadsheet, and database at an acceptable rate of accuracy and speed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Possession of a law degree from a regionally accredited law school, AND:

Before submitting your application, please make sure that your skills, qualifications, and competencies align with this job posting and are clearly stated on all documents that you submit to the City of Binghamton.

The City of Binghamton is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to workforce diversification. All new hires are required to pass a pre-employment drug test as a condition of employment. Broome County residency is required at time of appointment.