Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To direct activities of the Municipal Court as it pertains to court proceedings; to adjudicate Municipal Court cases including preparation of legal documents and related work all pursuant to City Charter and 13-10-101 et. sec. C.R.S.
JOB CLASSIFICATION
Exempt, Non-Safety Sensitive.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives policy direction from the City Council.
Coordinates work through the Court Administrator.
PRIMARY DUTIES--The following are examples of primary duties assigned to positions in this classification. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.
1. Adjudicates civil and criminal cases arising under City Charter, City Code and other ordinances of the City. Explains the laws and system to offenders. Evaluates evidence, testimony, and legal briefs. Issues written findings as necessary. Applies appropriate ordinances, code provisions and/or regulations. Imposes fines and penalties as authorized by code or ordinance. Assesses and collects civil penalties. Orders and enforces contempt, failure to appear, abatement of nuisance, and other responsibilities prescribed by the charter, code or ordinance. Acts as hearing officer. Issues inspection and search warrants in accordance with applicable law. Assists with the selection and supervision of associate judges, temporary referees, and law clerks. Coordinates with Court Administrator and court staff on matters related to Court procedures.
2. Promulgates and enforces all rules, procedures and proceedings pertaining to the Municipal Court arraignments, hearings, and trials, and other procedures while the court is in-session.
3. Assists the Court Administrator in legal or procedural matters of recordkeeping and docketing.
4. Provides input on the revision and creation of City ordinances related to matters of court proceedings.
5. Collaborates with the Court Administrator and court staff in developing and refining court policies and procedures as they relate to adjudication.
6. Keeps abreast of and current in the areas of Municipal Court proceedings. Provides relevant legal education to court staff.
7. Takes proper safety precautions, anticipates unsafe circumstances and acts accordingly to prevent accidents.
8. Participates in the preparation of the Municipal Court annual budget through the Financial Operations Director and Court Administrator
9. Serves as the presiding judge over Teen Court
10. Performs related duties as required by management to meet the needs of the City.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Operational characteristics, services and activities of municipal court arraignments, hearings, and trials.
Principles of civil, constitutional and administrative law.
Judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
Principles, materials and methods of legal research.
Legal precedents and court decisions impacting municipal government.
Statutes and codes applicable to civil proceedings.
Duties, powers, limitations and authority of a municipal court judge.
Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
Ability to:
Display respect for the judicial system and rule of law.
Prepare, present and conduct trials and legal appeals.
Present statements of fact, law and argument clearly and logically in both written and oral form.
Use a wide variety of legal research methods.
Work effectively with difficult people and adapt well to diverse populations.
Demonstrate strong analytical and writing skills.
Demonstrate strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Work collaboratively and effectively with other departments, particularly those involved in the court and where there is a high degree of interdependence.
Make sound judgments and exhibit patience when dealing with stressful situations.
Communicate effectively, diplomatically, clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing with co-workers, City Council and the general public.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Speak, read, comprehend, and write the English language fluently.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Minimum Requirements:
Experience:
Five years of increasingly responsible experience in the practice of law in Colorado.
Training:
A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.
License or Certificate:
Membership in the State Bar of Colorado.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions:
Office environment; exposure to computer screens.
Physical Conditions:
Primary functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for effectively performing assigned functions and may include sitting for prolonged periods of time; communicating with others; and operating a computer.