The San Diego City Attorney's Office protects the people of San Diego by serving as chief legal counsel to the City of San Diego’s elected officials and operational departments; prosecuting and defending civil cases involving the City; and as the City’s prosecutor on behalf of the People of the State of California, by holding accountable those who commit crimes against the public health and safety and violate other local and state laws. Our municipal law firm employs over 180 lawyers and approximately 230 support staff, dedicated to providing legal services to the City of San Diego.
The Civil Advisory Division of the San Diego City Attorney’s Office is conducting a recruitment to fill a Deputy City Attorney position in the Housing Protection and Civil Code Compliance Unit. This position reports directly to the Chief Deputy City Attorney of this Unit.
Responsibilities include the following:
- Civilly prosecute code enforcement cases referred by City departments, including building, land use, fire, police, drug abatement, and nuisance actions.
- Manage all phases of litigation from filing through appeal, including drafting pleadings, motions, discovery, briefs, and related legal documents.
- Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda related to litigation and land use enforcement matters.
- Independently manage a caseload.
- Train City inspectors on code enforcement and legal issues.
- Collaborate with City departments, law enforcement, regulatory agencies, community groups, and elected officials to address enforcement matters.
- Attend City, community, council, committee, and administrative hearings and meetings as needed.
- Coordinate investigations and respond to public records requests.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum requirements:
- Active member in good standing with the State Bar of California.
- 3–5 years of civil litigation experience, including civil discovery, or equivalent experience.
- Strong legal research and writing skills.
Ideal candidates will have:
- Experience with municipal law and enforcement of housing, building, and zoning violations.
- Strong analytical, communication, and presentation skills.
- Effective problem-solving, conflict resolution, and teamwork abilities.
- Strong time management and organizational skills.
- Adaptability and the ability to quickly learn new areas of law and litigation strategies.
- An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.
Annual salary range with benefits: $138,403 - $288,205. Deadline to apply: July 15, 2026.
Go HERE to view the full job description and submit your application.
