Senior Assistant County Attorney (Open Until Filled)

Performs complex professional work rendering legal services to the County’s Department of Social Services. Assists the County Attorney in providing legal services, such as preparing cases for trial, representing the County’s Department of Social Services in court proceedings, drafting legal documents, and other related legal services to the County’s Department of Social Services. May supervise clerical personnel and may direct Assistant County Attorneys as assigned. Work is performed under the general supervision and subject to approval of the County Attorney. Performs other duties as assigned.

~ Providing legal services to the County’s Department of Social Services and to major boards and commissions of the County
~ Drafting and reviewing legal documents on behalf of the County
~ Investigating, processing, and litigating claims brought by and against the County
~ Preparing cases for trial, interviewing witnesses, and examining law and evidence
~ Representing the County in trial and appellate litigation, as well as in administrative hearings
~ Preparing formal legal opinions for the signature of the County Attorney
~ Rendering legal advice on a daily basis to officers and employees of the County, specifically to employees of the County’s Department of Social Services
~ Researching local, state, and federal law for information and precedents bearing on County legal problems
~ Advising County employees and constitutional officers in principles of the Conflicts of Interests Act and the Freedom of Information Act
~ Serving as liaison between the County Department of Social Services and local courts 

Education:
Required: Education equivalent to graduation from an accredited law school.

Experience:
Required: Considerable experience in the practice of law, including some demonstrated knowledge of litigation.

Certifications/Licenses:
Required: Must be licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia and in good standing with the Virginia State Bar.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Thorough knowledge of local government law and social services law. Thorough knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, and references utilized in legal research. Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and court decisions affecting local government. Ability to analyze, appraise and organize facts, evidence, and precedents, and to present such material effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to apply legal knowledge to difficult legal problems, and the ability to understand difficult legal issues. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with court officials, County officials and the public.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
May supervise clerical staff, interns, and Assistant County Attorneys, as assigned.

Additional Requirements:
Subject to a complete criminal history background search with acceptable results. Must be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description.