Staff Attorney

Job Summary

$97,001 - $164,222 / year or higher DOQ + Full-Time County Benefits

Provide legal research and recommendations to the Judges of the Williamsburg and James City County Circuit Court judges; provide overall training, direction and supervision to law clerks; and perform related work as directed by the Judges.

There are two levels of Attorney distinguished by the level of work performed and the qualifications of the employee.
Attorney I: $97,001 - $152,988 / year DOQ
Attorney II: $104,024 - $164,222 / year DOQ

Responsibilities

• Assists in the development and implementation of court policies and procedures, and written materials regarding same; and seek to generate improvements in court policies and procedures to enhance the functioning of the court.
• Assists the Judges with special research and writing projects as the Judges may request.
• Assists the Chief Judge with administrative and reporting requirements pursuant to statutory requirements.
• Researches and prepares legal analysis of a complex nature for the Judges regarding various cases and issues pending before the court and research and draft opinions under the direction of the Judges. Specifically, reviews cases scheduled for trial several days prior to the trial date, prepares summaries of the facts, issues, and other relevant data apprising the Judge of problems (jurisdictional, procedural, evidentiary, etc.) that may arise during the trial of the case and anticipating issues.
• Attends court and listens to arguments of counsel on various motions made on the morning of trial or during a trial and assists the Judge. Specifically, noting the Judge’s ruling on the case, and subsequently reviewing orders submitted pursuant to such ruling to determine whether they accurately reflect the ruling prior to their entry by the Judge.
• Provides managerial leadership for the hiring, training, supervision, and evaluation of law clerks.
• Reviews legislation pending in the General Assembly that may impact the court and follow its enactment status; and stay current on recent legal developments, both statutory and case law, impacting the court and its procedures.
• Participates in seminars and presentations, including the preparation of written materials, to provide information about policies and procedures of the Circuit Court; and write articles with updates and reminders regarding court procedures as needed.
• Performs other job duties requiring skills, knowledge and physical requirements as demanded by duties described.
• Provides support in the coordination of technology needs, coordination of purchase of publications and other related functions.
• Responds to telephone inquiries by Attorneys or other persons concerning procedural matters; reviews orders (divorce decrees, name change orders, adoption orders, etc.) to determine whether they comply with statutory requirements.
• Efficient navigation of computer programs such as Microsoft Office as well as electronic databases and related software applications such as Fastcase, Westlaw, and Civilware.
• Coordinates with Circuit Court Clerk’s Office to assess and respond to judicial responsibilities and needs.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a law degree from an accredited law school; a member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar or an equivalent is preferred. (Those awaiting Bar results may also apply.)
• Must possess reliable transportation to work site(s).
• Knowledge of law as applied to Virginia law and familiarity with courtroom procedures is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills are required.
• Ability to deal effectively with challenging and changing deadlines; speak effectively with Judges; express legal opinions effectively in writing.

Click here​for full job description. Accepting applications until position is filled. Cover letters and resumes may also be attached, but a fully completed application is required for your application to be considered.