The Florida Times-Union by Nate Monroe
August 7, 2019
COMMENTARY | The city of Jacksonville (Fl.) seeks full-time attorney to lead its award-winning Office of General Counsel.
Applicant must be self-starter, and flexible in politics and legal philosophy. Creativity is a must: In the Office of General Counsel, the word “shall” sometimes means “may.”
This position is not for everyone. Client is demanding and prone to fits of anger while tweeting. Responding to crisis at any hour is key for this job. Maintaining — and repairing — relationships with outside lawyers is a major responsibility.
No work week is the same. On Monday, the city might need a rigid textualist. And on Tuesday, it might need Ruth Bader Ginsburg to offer novel interpretations of local ordinances and resolutions.
Familiarity with Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law and public records law is required. Client will need much consultation in this area. Knowledge of exemptions, exceptions and loopholes is a plus.
Ability to work quickly is highly valued. Time is of the essence when reviewing contracts for consultants and lobbyists.
