Municipal Court Solicitor - Legal

The Municipal Court Solicitor is responsible for the prosecution of cases within the jurisdiction of the Town of Mount Pleasant Municipal Court. The position exercises independent professional judgment in evaluating, preparing, negotiating, and prosecuting assigned cases; advises and serves as a legal resource to the Police Department regarding criminal law and prosecution matters; and represents the Town in appeals arising from Municipal Court proceedings.

The Municipal Court Solicitor also performs assigned legal work on other Town matters and serves as the acting head of the Legal Department for administrative purposes, including budgeting, payroll, and supervision of assigned Legal Department staff.

Municipal Court Prosecution

• Reviews, evaluates, prepares, and prosecutes criminal and ordinance cases within the jurisdiction of the Municipal Court.
• Represents the Town in bench trials, jury trials, hearings, motions, and other Municipal Court proceedings.
• Reviews police reports, witness statements, evidence, legal issues, and other case materials to determine appropriate prosecutorial action.
• Exercises professional judgment and prosecutorial discretion consistent with applicable law, ethical obligations, Town policies, and the interests of justice.
• Confers and negotiates with defense counsel and self-represented defendants regarding pleas, case disposition, and other matters related to pending cases.
• Prepares witnesses, including law enforcement officers and citizen witnesses, for hearings and trials.
• Conducts legal research and prepares motions, briefs, legal memoranda, correspondence, and other documents related to assigned cases.
• Represents the Town in appeals arising from Municipal Court proceedings, as appropriate.
• Manages assigned caseload and ensures cases are appropriately prepared and handled within applicable court schedules and deadlines.

Legal Advice & Town Support

• Serves as a legal resource to the Police Department regarding criminal law, prosecution, evidentiary issues, and Municipal Court matters.
• Provides legal research, analysis, and recommendations regarding assigned municipal matters.
• Performs other legal work related to Town operations as assigned and within the scope of the position.
• Coordinates with Town officials, employees, law enforcement personnel, other governmental agencies, attorneys, courts, and members of the public regarding assigned legal matters.

Department Administration

• Assists Corporation Counsel as matters are assigned.
• Participates in departmental planning and administrative activities and assists in ensuring effective operation of the Solicitor’s Office.
• Supervises assigned employees, including providing direction, reviewing work, addressing performance matters, and completing other supervisory responsibilities consistent with Town policies.

Performs other related duties as assigned by Town Corporation Counsel.

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school;
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible legal experience;
• Active membership in good standing with the South Carolina Bar;
• Ability to maintain all licenses and professional qualifications required to practice law in South Carolina; and
• Valid South Carolina Driver’s License.

• Experience prosecuting criminal or ordinance violations;
• Trial experience in South Carolina courts;
• Experience with municipal, governmental, or public-sector law; and
• Experience advising law enforcement personnel or governmental officials.

• Knowledge of South Carolina criminal law, criminal procedure, evidence, and court procedures applicable to Municipal Court proceedings.
• Knowledge of constitutional…