Assistant County Counsel I
About The Position
Washington County seeks an Assistant County Counsel I to provide legal support to County departments and programs. The position conducts legal research, prepares cases and documents, and assists with interpreting and applying laws and ordinances. Work is supervised by the County Counsel and Deputy County Counsel, and responsibilities expand 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, handles 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, providing clear legal guidance in real time. The Office of County Counsel provides legal advice and representation to Washington County, including the Board of County Commissioners, the Sheriff, County departments and employees, and several County authorities and service districts. Its work includes civil litigation, judicial appeals, administrative proceedings, enforcement actions, and general legal services such as resolving legal and contractual issues, drafting local ordinances, and reviewing state and federal legislation for 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 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; assist with ordinance enforcement and civil commitment matters; and help defend the County and its employees in litigation.
- Participate in meetings, hearings, and trials and provide legal guidance to boards, commissions, and other County partners.
- Perform other related duties as needed.
Benefits
- Award-winning benefits and wellness program
- Employee development opportunities
- Work-life harmony
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
