The San Diego City Attorney's Office protects the people of San Diego by serving as chief legal counsel to the City of San Diego’s elected officials and operational departments; prosecuting and defending civil cases involving the City; and as the City’s prosecutor on behalf of the People of the State of California, by holding accountable those who commit crimes against the public health and safety and violate other local and state laws. 

The San Diego City Attorney’s Office has an opening for the Assistant City Attorney of the Civil Litigation Division. The position reports directly to the City Attorney and is a member of the City Attorney’s Executive Team.

The Civil Litigation Division prosecutes and defends lawsuits involving the City in state and federal courts, handling all stages of litigation, including trials and appeals. Under the Assistant City Attorney, the Division advises City leadership, presents cases and settlement proposals to the Mayor and City Council, and works with City departments to mitigate risks and resolve disputes.

Its workload includes police liability, personal injury, property damage, dangerous conditions, vehicle accidents, indemnity and revenue claims, constitutional matters, ADA, Brown Act, CEQA, land use, and Public Records Act cases. The Division also handles employment claims involving discrimination, retaliation, harassment, unpaid wages, and proceedings before the Civil Service Commission and Cal OSHA.

Responsibilities include the following:

• Oversee daily Division operations, case assignments, and performance.

• Supervise, train, mentor, recruit, and hire attorneys and Division chiefs.

• Provide strategic, procedural, and legal guidance and oversee outside counsel.

• Develop and implement Division policies and procedures.

• Advise and communicate with the Mayor, City Council, and City leadership.

• Oversee closed-session and settlement processes and related City Council meetings.

• Represent the Division before the City Council, committees, community groups, and media.

• Support legislation, attend Executive Team meetings, and perform other assigned duties.

Minimum requirements:

• Active member in good standing of the State Bar of California with experience in civil litigation, government defense, writs, and appeals.
• Licensed, or willing to obtain licensure, in the U.S. District Court and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
• Strong analytical, research, writing, oral advocacy, communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, teamwork, and time management skills.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of legal experience, significant trial and management experience, strong references, and experience working with municipalities and elected officials. Must be able to travel to legal proceedings and meetings throughout the City, with a valid California driver’s license and personal vehicle or other reliable transportation.

Annual salary range with benefits: $250,000 - $295,000. Deadline to apply: August 21, 2026.

Go HERE to view the full job description and submit your application.