Staff Attorney

Overview

Staff Attorney is responsible legal work in research and consultation involving municipal legal problems.

The employee is responsible for the performance of a wide variety of legal duties in connection with the operation of municipal government. Emphasis in the work is given to telephonic and personal consultation with municipal officials and the preparation of legal advisory opinions, but also includes review of ordinances, review of state legislation, legal research, staffing of MMA and other governmental committees, legislative drafting, and participation in training programs.

Consistent with the Maine Bar Rules, the employee exercises professional judgment independently, but the work may be reviewed during progress or upon completion by the Director of Legal Services.

• Studies constitutions, statutes, ordinances, bylaws, decisions, rules and regulations, and carries on related research activity with the objective of clarifying points of law and fact usually initiated by member inquiries.
• Advises on legal questions and confers with municipal officials regarding administrative interpretations of laws.
• Writes and reviews contracts, ordinances, charters, mutual aid pacts and other legal and legislative documents.
• Prepares and organizes legal information for distribution to members via The Maine Townsman, manuals, other publications, and MMA’s website
• May prepare briefs and participate in court cases of general concern to municipalities and the organization.
• May attend various municipal board meetings as advisory legal counsel.
• May lecture to town officers and affiliate groups on various municipal legal subjects.
• May testify before legislative committees regarding pending legislation.
• Provides advisory support for other project centers in the organization.
• Performs related work as required.
• Exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships at all levels within MMA, as well as with members of the association.

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and procedures of civil law, especially as they relate to municipal government and the ability to apply this knowledge to varied legal problems.
• Thorough knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices of legal research.
• Considerable knowledge of local ordinances, bylaws, charters, and of state and federal law provisions affecting municipal ordinances.
• Working knowledge of state government structure, also municipal government structure and operations, and the relationships to other public jurisdictions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with municipal officials.

• Graduation from an accredited law school with instruction in municipal law and experience practicing law.
• Admission to the Maine Bar.

• Make a meaningful statewide impact in municipal governance.
• Work with a skilled legal team committed to public service excellence.
• Influence policy, legislation, and legal best practices across Maine.

• 100% employer‑paid health and dental insurance for full‑time employees.
• Employer retirement contributions up to 10%, supporting your long‑term financial well‑being.
• Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  , promoting strong work‑life balance.

Please include a resume and cover letter