Part-Time Assistant County Attorney

Beltrami County•Bemidji, MN

20d

About The Position

Beltrami County is creating an eligibility list for a part-time, 0.5 FTE, non-benefited Assistant County Attorney. The position handles a mixed caseload involving criminal matters, social service cases, and general county legal advice. Work includes court hearings and trials as well as office practice, with an emphasis on courtroom skills and legal research. The part-time schedule will be negotiated with the successful applicant. The Assistant County Attorney performs professional legal work representing the County in state and federal court, advising county staff on legal matters, and completing related work as assigned. The position works under the supervision of the Chief Assistant County Attorney and limited supervision of the County Attorney. The position is anticipated to begin in January 2027, pending final approval by the County Board in December 2026. Applications will be reviewed every two weeks, and the position will remain open until filled.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree.
One year or more of experience as a law clerk and/or attorney, including certified student attorney or equivalent experience.
Licensed to practice law in Minnesota, or able to obtain a Minnesota license within a reasonable period of time.
Valid Minnesota driver's license.
Thorough knowledge of local and state government legal and public issues, criminal and civil law, applicable laws, legal research, and the investigation, preparation, and presentation of cases for trial.
Considerable knowledge of legal office procedures, practices, and methods.
General knowledge of personal computers and associated hardware and software.
Skill in trial practice in state courts.
Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with county and court officials, members of the bar, and the public; and handle complex trial and appellate litigation.
Ability to meet continuing legal education requirements.
Successful completion of a drug screening and background check, and obtaining a Minnesota law license, as conditions of the employment offer.

Responsibilities

Conduct and oversee criminal appeals; research and prepare briefs and oral arguments; and appear in appellate court.
Provide legal advice and direction to law enforcement agencies during criminal investigations.
Prepare orders and pleadings and County representative testimony; assist with training child support workers on current laws; and represent the County when appropriate.
Prepare and conduct criminal prosecutions, direct support staff in case preparation, determine violations of law, prepare complaints or citations, develop pretrial and trial strategies, gather evidence, research legal issues, present arguments, and examine and cross-examine witnesses.
Advise and direct County human services staff on establishing paternity and collecting child support.
Review documents and determine approaches in child protection matters; collaborate with schools and child services case managers on child protection and truancy cases; review reports, court orders, and files; and represent the County at hearings, trials, and appeals.
Review documents and determine approaches in adult protection matters; work with social service case managers on guardianship and mental illness cases; prepare and file court documents; oversee staff work on probate, guardianship, and conservatorship pleadings and motions; and represent the County at hearings, trials, and appeals.
Provide legal advice concerning probate collections or lawsuits seeking reimbursement for medical assistance and expenses related to public assistance programs.
Review documents, prepare pleadings, and handle forfeiture matters involving money, vehicles, or other property used in crimes or representing proceeds of criminal activity.
Advise and represent the County in licensing and administrative cases before administrative law judges.
Prepare complex legal memoranda, letters, briefs, complaints, citations, petitions, and court pleadings.