Chief City Prosecutor

Definition

This is an unclassified position and will be posted until the position is filled. For additional information regarding the position and the City of Akron, click here: City of Akron, Ohio Chief City Prosecutor


The Chief City Prosecutor plays a vital role in maintaining public safety by enforcing the laws within the municipality; prosecuting criminal offenses within the city; and ensuring that justice is served while upholding the law and community standards. By prosecuting criminal offenses and providing legal guidance to city officials, the City Prosecutor helps ensure that the community operates within a framework of fairness, justice, and accountability. Their work is essential for fostering a safe and vibrant environment for residents.

Characteristic Work

• Prosecution of Criminal Cases: Conduct the initial appearance for all felony-level offenses and prosecuting criminal misdemeanor offenses and misdemeanor traffic offenses for the City of Akron as well as the townships, villages, and municipalities located within the jurisdiction of the Akron Municipal Court.
• Legal Advice and Representation: Provide legal counsel to city officials and departments, ensuring that municipal actions comply with local, state, and federal laws. Represent the city in court regarding criminal matters.
• Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Work closely with local law enforcement agencies to gather evidence and build cases against individuals accused of crimes. Assess the evidence collected by police to determine whether to file charges. Serve as the Police Legal Advisor for the Akron Police Department.
• Community Engagement: Engage with the community to address criminal matters and quality-of-life issues. Collaborate on programs aimed at crime prevention and community education.
• Discretion in Prosecution/Caseload Management: Has the discretion to decide which cases to pursue based on various factors, including the strength of the evidence, the severity of the offense, and the impact on the community. This discretion is crucial in ensuring that resources are used effectively and justly.
• Plan, organize, direct, assign, and evaluate the work of Assistant Prosecutors and certified Legal Interns engaged in the prosecution of criminal misdemeanor cases and misdemeanor traffic cases for the jurisdictions of Akron, Fairlawn, Bath, Richfield, Springfield, Lakemore, and Mogadore; Plan, organize, direct, assign, and evaluate the work of Assistant Prosecutors engaged in the arraignment of felony cases to bind over to Common Pleas Court for the jurisdictions of Akron, Fairlawn, Bath, Richfield, Springfield, Lakemore, and Mogadore
• Serve as the primary supervisor of Assistant Prosecutors acting as Police Legal Advisors (PLAs) and provide real-time, on call, legal advice 24/7/365 to eleven (11) local law enforcement agencies, as well as state and county agencies operating within the jurisdiction of the Akron Municipal Court
• Oversee the assignment of staff rotations within the Akron Municipal Court
• Oversee, plan, organize, and provide legal instruction to the Akron Police Academy along with Ohio Peace Officer Training Association (OPOTA) certified Assistant Prosecutors
• Oversee the provision of services and/or other support for victims in all cases involving domestic violence, violation of protection orders, and stalking with the jurisdiction of the Akron Municipal Court
• Oversee and direct the administrative operation of the Prosecutor’s Office including, but not limited to, training of staff, evaluation and selection of staff, participation in budget preparations and administration, and day-to-day operations of the division
• Ensure that legal services are provided consistent with professional standards, ethical obligations, and best practices
• Establishes goals and objectives and develops long-term plans to improve departmental operations
• Analyzes crime and prosecutorial trends to develop proactive strategies; Evaluates current and pending legislation and statutes and responds to changing regulations and technology
• Ensures fiscal responsibility of departments including securing grant funding and contracts
• Represents the Prosecutor’s Division at City Council meetings and other community and board meetings, participates in public engagement and education efforts relating to public safety
• Promotes community-oriented strategies and builds strong relationships with residents and stakeholders. Deliver presentations to a variety of audiences regarding crime and safety

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active licensure in good standing with the Supreme Court of Ohio
• Seven (7) years of legal practice with at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the practice of criminal prosecution, criminal defense, or other related field
• Strong working knowledge of Ohio criminal law, judicial procedures, and rules of evidence
• Ability to perform at a high level in extreme situations and under stress
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to clearly advise both legal and non-legal audiences
• Proven ability to exercise discretion, sound judgement, and professionalism in high-profile and sensitive matters
• Must possess (or obtain within 6 months of appointment) a valid State of Ohio driver’s license
• Pass a background check

Strongly Preferred Qualifications

• Residency within the corporate limits of the City of Akron within 6 months of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Substantial experience in criminal prosecution, including trial and appellate advocacy on behalf of government clients
• Considerable working knowledge of local, state, and federal laws which relate to criminal law and procedure
• Demonstrated capacity to lead, mentor, and manage attorneys and staff while advancing organizational goals

Competitive Examination Process

Interested candidates can submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample, and at least three (3) professional references to Montrella Jackson, Director of Human Resources, at [email protected]. Selected candidates will be asked to interview, remotely or in-person, with members of the screening committee. Final candidates may be required to have an in-person interview with the Mayor. One or more interviews may be required.


The City of Akron is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to apply for this exceptional career opportunity.