Description

This position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications beginning May 20, 2026. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed as needed. To review the complete posting and apply online, use this link: Assistant County Counsel I/II Posting

The Assistant County Counsel I/II with Washington County provides comprehensive legal services to assigned departments and represent the County throughout all stages of civil litigation, including investigations, hearings, trials, and appeals. They advise clients on legal and risk management matters, appear before courts and administrative bodies, and support a wide range of public agency legal issues.

This role requires handling complex legal matters with minimal supervision, strong problem solving skills, and the ability to develop practical, solutions oriented legal strategies. Collaboration, clear communication, and effective client partnership are essential.

If you are motivated by public service and eager to use your legal expertise to support a dynamic and growing community, we encourage you to apply.

Essential duties include:

• Pursues and defends legal actions in state and federal courts, including the Oregon Court of Appeals and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
• Researches and analyzes legal and factual issues
• Prepares and responds to discovery requests and conducts and defends depositions
• Prepares, drafts, and revises legal pleadings, motions, and appellate filings
• Presents cases at pretrial hearings, trials, mediations, and arbitrations
• Researches, interprets, and applies laws, court decisions, and other legal authorities and precedents when preparing cases, opinions, and briefs
• Attends meetings with County departments to provide legal advice and counsel
• Represents the County before state and federal administrative bodies
   

Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of Oregon and Federal civil litigation
• Understanding of civil and local government law
• Skilled in managing discovery, depositions, trials, arbitrations, and mediations
• Ability to spot legal issues and apply legal principles, evidence, and precedents
• Strong legal research and analytical abilities
• Clear, logical written and oral communication
• Experience with Oregon Circuit Court, Oregon Court of Appeals, U.S. District Court, and Ninth Circuit practices
• Ability to negotiate settlements and advise clients effectively
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively and independently
• High standards of professionalism, ethics, and integrity
   

About the Department/Division:

Washington County Counsel’s Office provides comprehensive legal representation for the County, including civil litigation at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as administrative and enforcement proceedings. The office delivers high quality legal services and practical solutions while upholding the highest ethical standards. Counsel represents the Board of Commissioners, the Sheriff’s Office, all County departments and employees, and several affiliated entities, including the Washington County Housing Authority, Fair Board, Enhanced Sheriff’s Patrol District, Urban Road Maintenance District, Service District for Lighting, and Cooperative Library Services.

Requirements

Education and Experience: Depending on experience, appointments to this position could be Assistant County Counsel I or II.  

Assistant County Counsel II (Salary Range: $130,787.28 - $171,035.88 Annually):

• Bachelor's degree (BS or BA) AND Juris doctor (JD) from an accredited college or university; AND
  Five (5) years of experience in all aspects of state or federal civil litigation. Trial, arbitration, and mediation experience
   

Assistant County Counsel I (Salary Range: $112,983.96 - $147,744.96 Annually):

• Bachelor's degree (BS or BA) AND Juris Doctor (JD) graduate from an accredited college or university; AND 
  Three (3) years of professional-level legal experience.
   

Additional Requirements

• Membership in the Oregon State Bar Association within 30 days of hire.
• Must pass a background investigation.