County Attorney

Juris Doctor degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association or the American Association of Law Schools and considerable experience in the practice of law, preferably including experience in local government or public sector law. Must be a member in good standing with the North Carolina State Bar.

The County Attorney is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners pursuant to North Carolina General Statute §153A-114. The position works under the general administrative direction of the County Manager.

Provides professional legal services to the Board of Commissioners, County Manager, and all County departments and officials. Work includes advising on legal matters, drafting and reviewing ordinances and contracts, representing the County in legal proceedings, and providing legal guidance on policy, regulatory, and operational issues affecting County government. Responsibilities include reviewing legislation, preparing legal opinions, participating in policy development, directing internal litigation matters, advising the County in quasi-judicial matters, conducting legal research, managing special projects, and performing related work as assigned.

The County Attorney serves as chief legal advisor to the Board of Commissioners, County Manager, and County departments. Legal services for County departments and officials are generally coordinated through the County Manager to ensure consistent administration of County policy and operations.

Essential Functions

• Serves as legal counsel to the County Manager, Board of Commissioners, County boards and committees, and County departments.
• Serves as legal counsel to the Board of Commissioners while operating administratively under the direction of the County Manager
• Advises County leadership on legal matters including policy development, investigative issues, interpretation of laws and regulations, and the drafting and revision of ordinances and resolutions.
• Assists County departments in interpreting and complying with local, state, and federal statutes, regulations, and administrative rules.
• Conducts legal research and analysis on complex issues and prepares written legal opinions and recommendations.
• Drafts, reviews, and negotiates contracts, interlocal agreements, memoranda of understanding, easements, leases, and other legal documents on behalf of the County.
• Represents the County in civil litigation, administrative proceedings, and other legal matters, including preparing pleadings, conducting discovery, negotiating settlements, and participating in hearings or trials as appropriate.
• Oversees and coordinates litigation matters and works with outside counsel when specialized legal expertise is required.
• Reviews proposed legislation and regulatory changes affecting County government and advises leadership on legal and operational implications.
• Advises County leadership on legal risk management, liability exposure, and regulatory compliance.
• Assists in resolving complex or sensitive matters involving the public, businesses, special interest groups, other governmental entities, and elected or appointed officials.
• Provides legal guidance on matters related to tax administration and other specialized County operations when non-routine legal issues arise.
• Responds to legal inquiries from County officials, staff, and members of the public as appropriate.
• Assists department directors in establishing policies, procedures, and operational practices consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
• Maintains current knowledge of the legal responsibilities of County boards, committees, and authorities.
• Develops and manages the legal department annual budget.