Staff Attorney

James City County•Williamsburg, FL

7d•$97,001 - $164,222

About The Position

The Staff Attorney provides legal research and recommendations to the Judges of the Williamsburg and James City County Circuit Court, and provides overall training, direction, and supervision to law clerks. The position also performs related work as directed by the Judges. There are two levels, Attorney I and Attorney II, distinguished by the level of work and employee qualifications. Attorney I pays $97,001–$152,988 per year, depending on qualifications; Attorney II pays $104,024–$164,222 per year, depending on qualifications. The posting lists a salary range of $97,001–$164,222 per year or higher, depending on qualifications, and full-time county benefits. The role supports the Circuit Court’s legal, administrative, and procedural work. It entails researching complex legal issues and cases, preparing analyses and draft opinions under judicial direction, preparing judges for trials, assisting during court proceedings, reviewing proposed orders, keeping current on legal developments, and supporting court policies, procedures, technology, and publications. The Staff Attorney also coordinates with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and handles inquiries concerning procedural matters.

Requirements

Education and experience equivalent to a law degree from an accredited law school.
Reliable transportation to work site(s).
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage challenging and changing deadlines.
Ability to speak effectively with Judges and express legal opinions effectively in writing.
Efficient navigation of computer programs, electronic databases, and related software applications.

Nice To Haves

Membership in good standing of the Virginia State Bar or an equivalent; applicants awaiting Bar results may also apply.
Knowledge of law as applied to Virginia law and familiarity with courtroom procedures.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing and implementing court policies and procedures and written materials about them, and identify improvements to enhance court operations.
Assist Judges with special research and writing projects as requested.
Assist the Chief Judge with administrative and reporting requirements pursuant to statutory requirements.
Research complex cases and legal issues pending before the court, prepare legal analyses, and draft opinions under the direction of the Judges.
Review cases scheduled for trial several days in advance, prepare summaries of facts, issues, and relevant data, and alert the Judge to anticipated jurisdictional, procedural, evidentiary, and other issues.
Attend court, listen to arguments on motions, assist the Judge, note rulings, and review proposed orders to ensure they accurately reflect the rulings before entry.
Lead the hiring, training, supervision, and evaluation of law clerks.
Review legislation pending in the General Assembly that may affect the court, monitor its enactment status, and stay current on relevant statutory and case law developments.
Participate in seminars and presentations, prepare written materials about Circuit Court policies and procedures, and write articles with procedural updates and reminders as needed.
Coordinate support for technology needs and the purchase of publications and related functions.
Respond to telephone inquiries from attorneys and others about procedural matters, and review orders such as divorce decrees, name-change orders, and adoption orders for compliance with statutory requirements.
Use Microsoft Office, electronic databases, and related software applications such as Fastcase, Westlaw, and Civilware.
Coordinate with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office to assess and respond to judicial responsibilities and needs.
Perform other duties as assigned and other work requiring the skills, knowledge, and physical requirements of the described duties.