Staff Attorney

James City County•Williamsburg, VA

13d

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 role also performs related work as directed by the Judges. There are two levels of Attorney, distinguished by the level of work performed and employee qualifications: Attorney I ($97,001–$152,988 per year, depending on qualifications) and Attorney II ($104,024–$164,222 per year, depending on qualifications). The overall listed salary range is $97,001–$164,222 per year or higher, depending on qualifications. The position includes full-time county benefits. The Staff Attorney supports court operations and the Judges through complex legal research, analysis, and drafting; assistance with court policies and procedures; review of trial cases, motions, and proposed orders; and administrative support to the Chief Judge. The position also helps coordinate law clerk staffing and court technology and publication needs, responds to procedural inquiries, monitors legal developments, and coordinates with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. Applications are accepted until the position is filled. A fully completed application is required; cover letters and resumes may also be attached.

Requirements

Education and experience equivalent to a law degree from an accredited law school.
Must possess reliable transportation to work site(s).
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to manage challenging and changing deadlines.
Ability to speak effectively with Judges.
Ability to express legal opinions effectively in writing.

Nice To Haves

Membership in good standing of the Virginia State Bar or an equivalent is preferred; 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 related written materials, and seek improvements that enhance court functioning.
Assist Judges with special research and writing projects as requested.
Assist the Chief Judge with administrative and reporting requirements pursuant to statutory requirements.
Research and prepare complex legal analyses regarding cases and issues pending before the court, and research and draft opinions under the Judges’ direction.
Review cases scheduled for trial several days in advance; prepare summaries of facts, issues, and relevant information; and alert the Judge to potential 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 rulings before entry.
Provide managerial leadership for hiring, training, supervising, and evaluating law clerks.
Review pending General Assembly legislation that may affect the court and track its enactment status; stay current on statutory and case-law developments affecting the court and its procedures.
Participate in seminars and presentations, prepare written materials about Circuit Court policies and procedures, and write procedural update articles as needed.
Coordinate support for court technology needs and the purchase of publications and related functions.
Respond to telephone inquiries from attorneys and others about procedural matters.
Review orders, including divorce decrees, name-change orders, and adoption orders, for compliance with statutory requirements.
Use computer programs, electronic databases, and related software applications, including Microsoft Office, 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 job duties requiring the described skills, knowledge, and physical requirements.