Associate Counsel

Job Description

Description

The City of Hartford’s Office of the Corporation Counsel is accepting applications for the position of Associate Counsel. This is a full-time, entry-level attorney position. Under general supervision, provides legal advice, conducts legal research, drafts documents, and represents the City in a variety of matters. Prepares memoranda opinions and provides recommendations to City officials and departments. Drafts contracts, policies, and other legal documents. Provides legal support in areas, including but not limited to, land use, public works, employment, contracts, public safety, and general governance. Represents the City in administrative hearings, court proceedings and negotiations as assigned. Assists in ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Responds to legal inquiries from City officials.

The above essential duties and responsibilities are not intended as a comprehensive list; they are intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may perform additional related duties as required.

This is position is covered under the Municipal Lawyer's Association (MLA). The hours of work for this position are 40 per week.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Applicants must possess:
Knowledge of:

• Legal practice and procedures in Connecticut.
• Common, statutory and local laws and ordinances, established precedents and the source of legal reference.
• Principles, practices, methods and procedures of legal research and investigation.

Ability to:

• Organize, appraise and analyze facts, evidence and precedents in connection with court cases and legal opinions.
• E stablish and maintain effective working relationships with officials and employees of the jurisdiction, court officials and with the general public.
• Communicate proficiently both orally and in writing.

Qualifications

Open to all applicants who meet the following qualifications:

Possesses a Juris Doctor degree from an ABA accredited law school and current membership in good standing with the Connecticut State Bar.

Recent law school graduates with strong academic, organizational, writing and analytical skills are encouraged to apply.

A COPY OF YOUR DEGREE OR TRANSCRIPT AND PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP IN GOOD STANDING WITH CT BAR MUST BE ATTACHED TO YOUR APPLICATION. A DEGREE OR TRANSCRIPT AND PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP IN GOOD STANDING WITH CT BAR SUBMITTED WILL BE VERIFIED BY THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT.

If selected, you will be required to pass a physical examination administered by a City physician, a drug and alcohol screening examination, and a background check. This examination and employment process is subject to all federal, state, and municipal laws, rules and regulations.

Other Information

• Benefits include: health and life insurance, retirement options, voluntary benefit programs, and paid leave
• Application must be completed in its entirety, including required documentation. Applications without proper documentation shall result in your disqualification.
• All correspondence and information concerning the application and testing process will occur via email, unless otherwise requested at the time of application.
• Please be sure to check your junk and spam email for all recruitment communication.
• Applications via facsimile or email are not accepted.

LEGAL NOTICES

• American With Disabilities Act: The Human Resources Department provides reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need accommodation in the application or testing process, please contact the Human Resources Department.
• An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Hartford is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities.

Closing Date/Time: 11/19/2026 5:00 PM Eastern