Assistant County Counsel I

Washington County, Oregon•Hillsboro, OR

About The Position

Washington County is seeking an Assistant County Counsel I to provide legal support to County departments and programs. The position conducts legal research, prepares cases and documents, and helps interpret and apply laws and ordinances. Work is supervised by the County Counsel and Deputy County Counsel, with responsibilities expanding as the employee gains experience and familiarity with County practices. The role advises department heads, managers, and staff on legal questions; prepares written opinions; drafts settlement agreements; and researches statutes, regulations, and case law. It also helps prepare cases for trial in state and federal court, works on ordinance enforcement and civil commitment matters, and assists in defending the County and its employees in civil actions. The position attends board and commission meetings, hearings, and trials and provides clear legal guidance in real time. The Office of County Counsel advises and represents Washington County, including the Board of County Commissioners, the Sheriff, County departments and employees, and various County authorities and service districts. Its work includes civil litigation, judicial appeals, administrative proceedings, enforcement actions, drafting local ordinances, resolving legal and contractual issues, and reviewing state and federal legislation for its effects on County operations, programs, and services.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (BS or BA) and Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited college or university.
Three years of professional-level legal experience.
Membership in the Oregon State Bar Association within 30 days of hire.
Must pass a background investigation.
Understanding of legal principles, practices, procedures, and terminology.
Knowledge of civil and local government law.
Familiarity with Oregon Revised Statutes, Rules of Civil Procedure, and related legal frameworks.
Understanding of trial and hearing procedures and rules of evidence.
Skill in legal research and working with statutes, case law, and other legal materials.
Understanding of appellate processes.
Ability to analyze legal issues and apply relevant laws, facts, and precedents.
Ability to communicate legal concepts clearly and effectively in writing and in person.
Ability to gather, assess, and interpret information using established research methods.
Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities

Provide legal advice to County leadership, department heads, managers, and staff.
Prepare written legal opinions and draft settlement agreements.
Research and interpret statutes, regulations, court decisions, and other legal authorities, applying findings to cases, briefs, and legal analyses.
Prepare cases for trial and assist with ordinance enforcement and civil commitment matters.
Assist in defending the County and its employees in civil actions.
Participate in meetings, hearings, and trials and provide legal guidance to boards, commissions, and other County partners.
Perform other related duties as needed.