Assistant City Prosecutor (Municipal Prosecution & Trial Attorney)

Come Work for the City That Works for You.

City of Columbia, Missouri

Full-Time | $35.30 - $43.43 per Hour ($73,400 - $90,300 Annually) + Outstanding Benefits | Law Department

Posting Number: 4261P

Department: Law

Division: Prosecution

Job Code: 03299

FLSA Status: Exempt

Union Affiliation: Unrepresented

Pay Grade: 111

Position Available: 1

Application Deadline: August 31, 2026

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday | 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. (Occasional evening court appearances or meetings may be required.)

Make a Difference Through Public Service

The City of Columbia is seeking an Assistant City Prosecutor to join our Law Department and represent the City in municipal prosecutions while helping protect the safety, welfare, and quality of life of our community.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an attorney who enjoys courtroom advocacy, legal research, trial preparation, and public service. You'll work closely with law enforcement officers, City departments, victims, witnesses, and the Municipal Court to ensure fair, ethical, and effective prosecution of municipal ordinance violations.

Whether you're an early-career attorney looking to build significant courtroom experience or an experienced lawyer seeking meaningful public service, this position offers challenging legal work, professional growth, and an exceptional quality of life.

Why Join the City of Columbia?

Competitive annual salary of approximately $73,400 to $90,300 based on qualifications and experience

Outstanding employee benefits include:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Missouri public retirement benefits

Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave

Life insurance options

Employee Assistance Program

Continuing legal education and professional development opportunities

Stable full-time employment with excellent work-life balance

Meaningful public service with a direct impact on the Columbia community

Collaborative legal team committed to professionalism and excellence

What You'll Do

Represent the City in Municipal Court and other courts of competent jurisdiction

Review law enforcement investigations and determine appropriate charges for violations of City ordinances

Prepare, review, and prosecute municipal ordinance cases from filing through final disposition

Conduct legal research and prepare pleadings, motions, memoranda, discovery responses, warrants, and other legal documents

Present evidence, examine witnesses, conduct cross-examinations, and argue motions in court

Negotiate fair and equitable resolutions while ensuring justice and compliance with the law

Work closely with police officers, code enforcement personnel, City officials, victims, and witnesses throughout the prosecution process

Provide legal guidance and training to police officers, code enforcement staff, and City departments regarding municipal prosecution matters

Assist with drafting ordinances and reviewing legal issues affecting City operations

Maintain the highest ethical standards while protecting confidential information and serving as an officer of the court

Minimum Qualifications

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school

Licensed to practice law in the State of Missouri

One year of experience as a prosecutor, criminal defense attorney, government attorney, or other relevant legal experience is preferred

Equivalent legal experience or specialized training may be considered

Valid driver's license or reliable transportation for court appearances and professional meetings

Eligibility for access to the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES)

We're Looking For Someone Who...

Enjoys courtroom litigation and trial advocacy

Has excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills

Exercises sound judgment and ethical decision-making

Communicates effectively with judges, attorneys, law enforcement officers, City officials, victims, and members of the public

Can successfully manage multiple cases and deadlines

Works independently while collaborating effectively with a professional legal team

Demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to public service

Has compassion for victims while ensuring fairness and due process

Why This Position Is Different

As an Assistant City Prosecutor, your work has a direct and lasting impact on public safety and the quality of life in Columbia.

You'll gain meaningful courtroom experience, manage your own caseload, collaborate with experienced law enforcement professionals, and develop broad expertise in municipal law and criminal prosecutionall while enjoying the stability, benefits, and work-life balance that come with public-sector employment.

This is an exceptional opportunity for attorneys who want to build litigation experience, strengthen trial advocacy skills, and make a meaningful contribution to their community.

Recent Law School Graduates Welcome

Students graduating in May 2026 with a Rule 13 Certification are encouraged to apply. Candidates must obtain admission to the Missouri Bar by September 30, 2026.

Please include your resume and cover letter with your application.

Apply Today

If you're ready to build a rewarding legal career while serving the public, we encourage you to apply.

Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2026.

Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573-874-2489 or TTY 711 (Missouri Relay).

The City of Columbia is a merit-based, affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program. Pre-employment drug testing is required.

Salary/Compensation: $73,400 - $90,300 per year