Associate Attorney

Municipal Attorney

Frisco, TX

Description

Messer Fort PLLC is seeking an energetic, self-motivated, experienced municipal government attorney to join our collaborative team. This position provides legal services encompassing a wide range of municipal laws with minimal supervision and will work closely with and report to a partner. Responsibilities include:

• Advise assigned cities on all aspects of municipal law, including land use and development matters, subdivision regulations, public improvement districts and other special districts, elections, procurement, open meetings, open records, contracts, franchises, ordinances, legal opinions, and utility matters.
• Assist clients with negotiating, drafting and editing agreements, real estate transactions, development and reimbursement agreements, impact fee and tax abatement agreements, easements and utility agreements, and Chapter 380 economic development incentive agreements.
• Draft and amend documents and city codes, including ordinances and resolutions.
• Work with developers, engineers, and the municipality to provide guidance and direction on new developments, ETJ matters, and annexations.
• Conduct research on city ordinances and state regulations.
• Agenda review/approval in accordance with state and local government code.

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Currently licensed and in good standing to practice law in the State of Texas
• 5-7 years of experience practicing in municipal law required
• Land use, annexation, and planning experience preferred

Core Competencies of Successful Candidates:

• Timely carries out assigned projects to their completion. Balances among competing priorities and multitasks appropriately. Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy and enthusiasm. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues inside and outside of the office. Treats others with courtesy, sensitivity, and respect. Relates comfortably with diverse groups of people. 
• Makes clear and convincing oral presentations. Listens effectively; clarifies information as needed. Writes in a clear, concise, organized, and persuasive manner for the intended audience. 
• The position requires sound judgment and good technical skills. The successful candidate will be analytical, thorough and detail-oriented. The candidate must have excellent organizational skills and be proficient and knowledgeable in Microsoft, document management, and file and calendar management. 
• Some in-state travel may be required.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, client-service-driven setting.

Compensation:

Compensation is commensurate with experience and based on numerous factors including but not limited to work experience, qualifications, credentials and location. In addition to a competitive salary, bonuses, paid holidays and paid personal leave, Messer Fort contributes toward monthly insurance premiums, and a retirement plan after one year of service.

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school
• Admission to the state bar
• 5-7 years of experience in a law firm or similar setting
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail