Description

Position Summary

A Divisional Deputy City Solicitor in the Tort Litigation Unit should have at least 10 years of civil litigation experience in Pennsylvania. This is a management position that also involves defending the City of Philadelphia and its employees primarily in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas against premises liability, motor vehicle, and property damage claims. Responsibilities include managing and supervising two teams of approximately six (6) trial attorneys and two (2) legal assistants each as they represent the City in high volume litigation matters that can involve catastrophic injuries to individuals and property.

Divisional Deputy City Solicitors also represent the City and its officials in significant jury trials and settlement negotiations in civil tort litigation matters. In addition to advising the Unit’s attorneys on trial and settlement strategy, Divisional Deputies work with departments across the City, counseling them about liability exposure and best practices to reduce the risk exposure of the City.  

Significant knowledge and experience in tort claims (personal injury and property damage) and in-depth knowledge of the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act and Pennsylvania and Philadelphia Rules of Civil Procedure are necessary to manage this Division. The candidate should have working knowledge of City of Philadelphia government to spot issues, render advice and refer matters as appropriate. The ability to relate well with people and provide reinforcement, encouragement and where indicated suggestions and constructive criticism on how to improve is vital.  

The Tort Litigation Unit represents clients across City departments and agencies.   Lead by the Chief Deputy, Unit members are expected to work collaboratively with other Unit and Law Department colleagues on all matters in a manner that reflects the Law Department’s focus on fostering and maintaining a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment that values all forms of diversity. It is a demanding but rewarding position.

Essential Functions

The functions listed below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed in this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or essential functions. Duties may be modified, assigned, or reassigned as operational needs evolve, consistent with applicable law.

• Managing and overseeing team(s) in the Tort Litigation Unit
• Ensuring that all Civil Actions are assigned to trial attorneys, giving advice on motions, investigation, Discovery and case theories.
• Reviewing and approving pleadings, motions and other court filings. The Divisional Deputy’s review will make sure that filings comply with the applicable rules of civil procedure, adequately preserve defenses and where appropriate persuasively advance the City’s interests.
• Conducting regular case reviews with attorneys to ensure that appropriate pleadings and motions are timely filed and that investigation and Discovery are being timely and appropriately conducted.
• Exploring case stratagems, theories and issues with Division attorneys.
• Advising on use of experts for liability and damages.
• Setting appropriate case reserves on civil claims.
• Approving appropriate settlement authority.
• Preparing written evaluations of attorneys and support staff.
• Communicating with and reviewing the work of outside counsel.
• Appearing in court when warranted.
  Communicating with opposing counsel.
• Interviewing and making hiring recommendations.
• Conducting legal research and drafting of memoranda on legal, policy or other issues. Staying current with the law that governs the Unit’s practice areas.
• Being available to assist the Chief Deputy in all matters affecting the Unit

Requirements

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency polices and process 
• Ability to analyze large amounts of information, determine relevant facts, and propose viable solutions.
• Ability to find what applicable laws and regulations apply to a specific matter.
• Ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. Must be able to clearly present and explain their case to arbitrators, mediators, opposing parties, judges, or juries and listen, answer questions, present to large groups and high-level officials and employ diplomacy in challenging situations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to identify and analyze legal issues within complex fact patterns.
• Ability to foster and maintain a collegial, inclusive, and professional work environment.
• Excellent writing, case management, negotiating, and trial skills.
• Ability to train professional legal staff as well as non-legal staff on applicable legal requirements.
• Excellent judgment and critical thinking in high-pressure situations.
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to work on teams and collaborate with colleagues and clients.

Qualifications (Education and Experience)

• This is a senior level, supervisory position, with 10+ years of legal experience practicing complex litigation in state and/or federal court, and first chair jury trial experience required.
• The ideal candidate will have prior experience supervising attorneys throughout various stages of litigation
• Candidates must have a law degree from an ABA accredited law school and must either be a 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). 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.

Work Location & Onsite Expectations

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. Regular on-site presence is an operational requirement of this role. 

Who Thrives in This Role

This position is well-suited for candidates who are adaptable, collaborative, comfortable making decisions in real time, and able to manage competing priorities while maintaining a high standard of professionalism in a fast-paced, in-person environment.

Additional Information 

Did you know?

• Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.  Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more. 
• Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer
• 25% tuition discount program for City employees (and sometimes spouses and dependents as well) in partnership with area colleges and universities.
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options are available.  

Interested candidates should apply through SmartRecruiters: https://smrtr.io/xGBJ3 

Any questions related to this position should be directed to Sean Kirby, Chief Deputy City Solicitor, Tort Litigation Unit (sean.kirby@phila.gov).

The successful candidate must be a resident of the City of Philadelphia within 6 months of hire.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx