City Attorney

City Attorney City of PrattReports To: Governing Body / City ManagerEmployment Type: Negotiable Position Summary The City Attorney serves as the chief legal advisor to the City Commission, City Manager, boards, commissions, and city staff. This position provides comprehensive legal counsel on municipal operations, ensures compliance with federal and state laws, drafts and reviews legal documents, and represents the City in legal proceedings. The City Attorney plays a critical role in protecting the City’s legal interests while supporting sound public policy and transparent governance. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Legal Counsel & Advisory Services

• Provide legal advice and opinions to the City Commission, City Manager, department heads, and advisory boards.
• Attend City Commission meetings and other board or commission meetings as requested.
• Advise on compliance with state and federal statutes, administrative regulations, and local ordinances.
• Interpret laws, court decisions, and administrative rulings affecting municipal government.

Legislative & Policy Support

• Draft, review, and revise ordinances, resolutions, policies, contracts, agreements, and other legal documents.
• Assist in the development and implementation of municipal policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with open meetings laws, open records laws, and other transparency requirements.
• Provide guidance on ethics, conflicts of interest, and governance matters.

Litigation & Prosecution

• Represent the City in civil litigation, administrative hearings, and other legal proceedings.
• Serves as municipal prosecutor and oversees municipal court operations.
• Coordinate with outside legal counsel when specialized legal services are required.
• Manage claims and risk mitigation strategies to protect City assets and interests.

Real Estate & Contracts

• Review and prepare contracts, leases, easements, development agreements, and procurement documents.
• Provide legal oversight on real estate transactions, annexations, zoning matters, and land use issues.
• Advise on bidding procedures and public works projects.

Employment & Personnel Matters

• Advise on employment law, personnel policies, labor relations, and disciplinary actions.
• Provide guidance on workplace investigations and compliance with employment regulations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of municipal law, administrative law, and relevant state statutes.
• Strong legal research, analytical, and writing skills.
• Ability to communicate complex legal matters clearly to elected officials, staff, and the public.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and high ethical standards.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a public service environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in the State of Kansas and in good standing with the State Bar.
• [Preferred:] Experience in municipal law, public sector representation, or related governmental legal work.

Compensation & Benefits Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and structured in accordance with the terms of the agreement approved by the Governing Body. This position is structured as a contract engagement. Benefits, including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and other employment-related benefits, are not provided. Application Process Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, résumé, and references to: info@cityofprattks.com Application deadline: March 13, 2026 Printable Job Description