(Unclassified)
To assist the County Counsel and Chief Assistant County Counsel in managing and directing the Office of County Counsel; to plan, organize and direct the activities of the office; and to provide highly complex staff assistance to the County Counsel and Chief Assistant County Counsel.
The Assistant County Counsel serves as a full line and functional manager with responsibility for activities of a major division providing multiple, varied functions.
Receives administrative direction from the County Counsel and general direction from the Chief Assistant County Counsel.
Exercises direct supervision over management, supervisory, professional, technical, and clerical personnel.
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Assist the County Counsel and Chief Assistant County Counsel in managing and directing the County Counsel’s Office consisting of legal, fiscal, and support staff; manage and direct the legal representation and advocacy in civil litigation and administrative hearings involving the County, its officers, and employees.
- In the absence of the County Counsel and Chief Assistant County Counsel, assume responsibility for the County Counsel’s Office.
- Submit opinions, as directed, to all County or district officers on matters relating to their respective offices.
- Attend meetings of boards or commissions as requested to provide legal counsel and advice.
- Conduct and/or direct civil litigation involving State and Federal courts, including, but not limited to, jury or court trials, law and motion, discovery, and appeals.
- Review and prepare proposed State legislative matters.
- Oversee and participate in prosecuting all recognizances forfeited in courts of record and all actions for the recovery of debts, fines, penalties and forfeitures accruing to the State in the County or to the County.
- Assist in developing goals and objectives for the office; assist in the development of and implementation of policies and procedures.
- Develop and implement the work plan of the office; assign work activities, projects and programs; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods and procedures.
- Assist in the preparation of and administration of the office budget; assist in budget implementation; participate in the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies.
- Recommend the appointment of personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; conduct performance evaluations; implement discipline procedures as requested; maintain discipline and high standards necessary for the efficient and professional operation of the office.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other County employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
- Represent the County to outside agencies and organizations; participate in outside community and professional groups and committees; provide technical assistance, as necessary.
- Research and prepare technical and administrative reports; prepare written correspondence.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Work is typically performed in an indoor office environment with controlled temperature conditions. Position may require travel to and from other locations in a variety of outdoor weather conditions and work odd or unusual hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Experience and Training
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience: Seven years of increasingly responsible experience in professional legal work, including a minimum of two years of practice in civil law performing duties similar to a Senior Deputy County Counsel in Placer County or two years of experience in the management of law office personnel.
Training: A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Required License or Certificate:
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Admission to practice before California State and Federal courts.
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Active membership in the California State Bar Association.
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May need to possess a valid driver's license as required by the position. Proof of adequate vehicle insurance and medical clearance may also be required.
Length of Probation
This classification serves at the pleasure of the Appointing Authority and has no specific term and no right to continuous employment.
Bargaining Unit
Unclassified Management