Assistant County Attorney IV (Real Estate & Land Transactions)

ASSISTANT COUNTY ATTORNEY IV

Job Title: Assistant County Attorney IV (Real Estate & Land Transactions)
Department: Law Department
Location: DeKalb County, GA
Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience

Job Description:

The DeKalb County Government is seeking a highly skilled and experienced senior Attorney to join our Law Department. This position will primarily focus on providing legal support for real estate, property, and land-related transactions and matters. The Assistant County Attorney IV will be responsible for managing and advising on a broad range of legal issues, including but not limited to acquisitions, easements, dispositions, public-private partnerships, title clearing, code enforcement, housing, and affordable housing initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Real Estate Transactions: Provide legal counsel on a variety of real estate matters, including property acquisitions, sales, easements, and leases.
• Land Use and Zoning: Assist in matters related to zoning, land use, and property development, ensuring compliance with county codes and regulations.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Advise on legal matters regarding public-private partnerships (PPP), working with developers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to structure and negotiate agreements.
• Title Clearing: Review and assist in the process of clearing titles, resolving complex property issues, and ensuring clear title for acquisitions or dispositions.
• Housing and Affordable Housing: Provide legal guidance on affordable housing projects, including compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and advising on housing-related matters.
• Code Enforcement: Represent DeKalb County in code enforcement actions, including legal actions regarding property violations, non-compliance, and enforcement of county codes.
• Legal Research & Risk Mitigation: Conduct legal research and analysis to identify and mitigate risks in real estate transactions and development matters. Draft and review contracts, deeds, resolutions, and other legal documents.
• Collaboration with Stakeholders: Work closely with other county departments, including Planning, Public Works, and Housing, to provide legal support on land use, zoning, and property matters. Collaborate with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Compliance and Policy Guidance: Ensure that all real estate-related transactions comply with federal, state, and local laws, as well as DeKalb County policies. Provide legal advice regarding the county’s housing policies, land development regulations, and other relevant codes.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Juris Doctorate degree required; six years of experience practicing law; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required: 

• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license; and must possess and maintain licensure from the Georgia State Bar Association.

Preferred Qualifications:

• At least 5 years of experience in real estate, property law, land use, and transactional matters, with a strong focus on government and public sector experience.
• Extensive knowledge of Georgia real estate law, including title issues, zoning regulations, property acquisition and disposition, and public-private partnerships.
• Experience in affordable housing development, code enforcement, and land development is highly preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to present complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
• Proven ability to negotiate, draft, and review legal documents related to real estate transactions and development agreements.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and with various county departments and external stakeholders.
• Experience in local government or public sector law, particularly in the context of urban development, affordable housing, or land use.
• Knowledge of federal and state programs related to housing and urban development.
• Experience in public-private partnerships and financing structures for land use projects.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in an office environment and sit for extended periods of time.
• Occasional travel within the county for meetings and site visits.