Role Overview
Assists the County Attorney in providing a wide range of legal services to the Board of Supervisors, boards and commissions, County departments, and constitutional officers. The Assistant County Attorney reports to the County Attorney. This attorney will work under the direct supervision of the County Attorney to perform a wide variety of legal tasks for numerous stakeholders and clients.
Role Description
- Performs legal research
- Provides oral and written opinions on legal matters as requested by the County Attorney
- Drafts and reviews contracts, ordinances, resolutions and other legal documents in support of County governmental operations
- Prepares reports and presentations
- Provides legal advice as needed during public meetings
- Prepares and tries court cases, including appeals to state and federal courts, under the direct supervision of the County Attorney
- Represents the County, constitutional officers, and other board and commissions before administrative agencies and tribunals
- Assists the County Attorney with the preparation and advocacy of the Board of Supervisors and other boards and commissions agendas
Non-essential Job Functions
- Performs a variety of clerical tasks in support of assigned duties and responsibilities
- Works closely with County staff and the Legal Assistant to the County Attorney
- Performs related duties as assigned
Qualifications
Education and Experience
Strong academic background. Graduation from an accredited school of law and one year or equivalent intern experience required. Must be a member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar or be eligible for admission within two (2) months.
Special Qualifications
Must possess satisfactory results of a criminal history background check.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Comprehensive knowledge of Orange County Ordinances, Virginia laws and procedures, as well as local rules of court and trial practice
- Ability to perform intricate and rapid legal research, to write persuasively and accurately, and to prepare legal briefs to the appropriate court
- Ability to communicate in a professional manner, establish and maintain constructive working relationships with County staff, fellow attorneys, public officials, judicial officers and the public
- Ability to present ideas and provide competent counsel in writing and orally to professionals and lay persons
Physical Demands
This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as light. Must be able to lift 5-10 pounds. Must be able to operate office and computer equipment.
Work Environment
Essential functions are regularly performed in an office or courtroom setting. Daily contact is made with judges, clerks of court, law enforcement officers, other legal professionals, the general public in person, by telephone and by written communications. Considerable skill in diplomacy, tact and persuasion is necessary. Work beyond normal work schedule. Hybrid work schedule available after satisfactory completion of probationary period.