Assistant County Attorney - Legal

Job Description

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Provides legal guidance, written and oral, to Board of County Commissioners, Elected Officials, Department Leaders and Departments.

• Performs legal research.

• Drafts legal memoranda.

• Prosecutes violations of County ordinances and may represent the County in civil matters.

• Works under the supervision of the County Attorney. May act as general counsel of the County when the County Attorney is absent.

• The functions and projects for which the Assistant County Attorney is responsible are not limited to those set forth above; he or she will perform such functions, duties or assignments as given by the County Attorney consistent with ability, background and expertise. Special projects are regularly assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• J.D. plus admission to New Mexico state bar.

• Minimum four years in practice of law.

Skills, Certifications and Licenses :

• Ability to communicate orally and in writing in English.

• Valid New Mexico driver's license.

Physical Functions/Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative and not necessarily exhaustive of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to perform essential functions of position with or without accommodation and to administer department and functions as assigned.

• Ability to travel as needed.

Mental Functions/Requirements :

• Must be able to understand and follow oral directions and instructions.

• Must be able to read, understand and follow written directions and instructions.

• Must be able to give oral and written directions and instructions.

• Must be able to engage in public speaking before both small and large groups; strong problem-solving and communication skills a must.

• Must be able to read and understand such items as contracts, resolutions, ordinances, agreements, personnel documents, abstracts, financial reports and similar documents.

• Must be able to write such items as letters, reports, briefs, opinions, resolutions, ordinances using proper format and grammar.

• Must be able to analyze and interpret legal information.

• Must be able to organize, plan and direct the work of others, as well as own work.

• Must be able to plan and effectively execute long- range projects.

• Must be able to act decisively, objectively and calmly in crisis situations.

• Must be able to effectively safeguard confidential information.

• Must be able to work under extreme circumstances at times and under pressure and stress most of the time.

• Must be able to use tact and courtesy in working with a wide range of individuals, including the public, sometimes under tense circumstances.

• Must demonstrate sufficient and adequate mental and emotional stability to withstand the rigors of a super­visory position.

• Must be knowledgeable of relevant traffic laws and regula­tions.

Other:

• Ability to perform essential duties and adapt to working conditions.

• No history or pattern of reckless driving, DWI or irresponsible driving in the last five years.

• No history of felony or misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, violence, distribution of controlled substances, or dishonesty.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative but not necessarily exhaustive of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Performs work mainly indoors, but may occasionally perform work outdoors.

• Temperature extremes depend upon weather conditions and whether employee is working outside.

• Indoor work is generally performed work on even carpeted or tiled surfaces or on asphalt or concrete surfaces, which are normally dry. On occasion may be wet or slippery. Outdoor work may be performed on asphalt, concrete or natural ground which may be dry, wet or slippery.

• Employee may be exposed to noise factors and vibration factors while working around county facilities and equipment, or during emergency situations. In addition, employee may work on stairs, ladders, elevators, inclines or ramps. Employee may on rare occasions be exposed to chemicals, fumes, dusts, pollens, grasses, weeds, and mists, human and animal odors. Exposed to normal driving hazards.

• Work is primarily conducted during daylight hours, but frequently is done during non-daylight hours for purposes of travel, scheduled meetings, public relations, or in an emergency situation.

• Performs majority of work alone with or without direc­tion, or with other people as part of a select group. May work occasionally as part of a large group.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

• Interview

• Background check

• General employment background check

• Driving record check