Assistant County Attorney II
Apply NowCompany: Houston County, MN
Location: Caledonia, MN 55921
Description:
Salary : $84,115.20 - $110,739.20 Annually
Location : Caledonia, MN
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2024-00070
Department: County Attorney
Opening Date: 11/22/2024
Description
This posting will remain open until the position is filled.
First review of applications - December 9, 2024
Please see the application instructions at the bottom of this announcement.
The Assistant County Attorney II (ACA II) acts for the County Attorney, administering and enforcing the laws of the State of Minnesota and its political subdivisions. The ACA II is First Chair for all primary areas of responsibility include felony and misdemeanor criminal prosecutions, juvenile law, municipal and family law, and general civil practice in all of the courts of the state. Attorneys litigate, negotiate, advise, and counsel, representing the State of Minnesota, the County of Houston.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The ACA II fulfills his/her duties autonomously and without direct supervision. As the ACA II is the team leader for his/her designated area of expertise the ACA II is responsible to inform the County Attorney and other ACA(s) of changes in the law and developing trends etc. The ACA II develops and recommends policy and practices to the County Attorney.
As First Chair, the ACA II is the controlling authority to initiate and settle litigation and to effectively recommend courses of action to County elected officials and department heads subject only to general guidance by the County Attorney and state and federal statutes, regulations, and rules.
The ACA II analyzes complicated factual situations and directs County department heads and staff as to appropriate department or unit responses, including but not limited to the arrest of individuals, the search of residents' homes/businesses, the termination of parental rights, holds and commitments, and the drafting/review contractual agreements with significant financial obligations. Such decisions frequently require risk analysis so as to minimize exposure of employees and residents to physical danger, as well as minimizing liability exposure for the County. The work-load is heavy with questions coming from all divisions of County government which necessitates varied expertise. Decisions are often irrevocable, binding the County to extensive legal or financial obligations. Ensures the County Attorney is fully advised on all legal matters.
Essential Duties
Criminal Prosecution - Represent the County and provide lead counsel at misdemeanor/felony juvenile and adult hearings and trials. Areas of criminal law practice
2. Human Services - Prepare petitions/motions/interrogatories/orders etc. and represent the County in proceedings:
3. Other Civil- Provide legal counsel to the County Board of Commissioners and the County's various department heads. Advise County officials on State and County ordinance/code requirements, and potential sanctions for violations. 4. Assist and review work of Assistant County Attorney I as appropriate. Other duties assigned by the County Attorney. 5. Assist Personnel Department in conducting candidate ratings/interviews for key County positions.This description describes the general list of responsibilities is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position and classification. It is intended only as an illustration of the various types of work performed. The position description is subject to change as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and hold a current license to practice law in the State of Minnesota required. Three years' experience working in public sector law. Extensive knowledge of the MN Government Data Practices Act and the MN Open Meeting law.
Additional Preferred Qualifications
A comprehensive knowledge of:
must have the following knowledge, skills and abilities
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Data Notice
Persons with Disabilities
The above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.
In compliance w/ the Americans with Disabilities Act the following represents the Physical/Environmental Demands
FUNCTION N/A25% - 49%50% - 74%>74% Office EnvironmentXSittingXStanding, WalkingXSimultaneous/Repetitive Hand MovementsXTyping/Data EntryXClose Vision (Near Acuity)XDistance Vision (Far Acuity)XColor Vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)
XAccommodation (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus)XHearing/SpeechXSedentary (Exert up to 10 pounds of force)XLight (Exert up to 20 pounds of force)XLifting, carrying or pushing of objects up to twenty-five (25) poundsXLifting, carrying or pushing of objects up to fifty (50) pounds XLifting or pushing of objects over fifty (50) poundsXAdverse movements such as overhead, bending, reachingX
NOTICE
A County employee in this position will encounter non-public data as defined by Minnesota or federal law in the course of their position. Any access to not public data should be strictly limited to accessing the data that is necessary to fulfill the defined job duties. While data is being accessed, the employee shall take reasonable measures to ensure the not public data is not accessed by unauthorized individuals. Once the work purpose to access the data is reasonably finished, the employee must properly store and secure the not public data in accordance with applicable County policies as well as Minnesota and federal law. All employees are expected to become familiar with and comply with the requirements of the County's Data Practices and Data Security Policies. A breach of these policies may lead to disciplinary action against the employee.
Status: Exempt
Job Category: Professional
Labor Group: Non-Union
Banding: D62
Last Reviewed: 03.2024
TO APPLY: submit your online application to Houston County by clicking the green "APPLY" button on this page. Please attach a cover letter and copies of any applicable licenses/certifications to your application file.
If special accommodations are needed to complete this application for employment, please contact the Houston County Personnel Department at [redacted].
Houston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Employee Benefits Summary
The following is only a summary of benefits and information contained in the County's Personnel Policy. However, it should be noted that the provisions of the County's Personnel Policy should not be construed as an employment contract or a guarantee of employment. Specific provisions relating to collective bargaining agreements or special rules established for particular departments are not covered here.
Vacation:
Years Employed Hours Earned
0 - 1 3.08 hr./pay period, = 10 Days per Year
2 - 5 3.70 hr./pay period, = 12 "
6 - 10 4.31 hr./pay period, = 14 "
11 - 15 4.93 hr./pay period, = 16 "
16 - 20 5.54 hr./pay period, = 18 "
21 - 25 6.16 hr./pay period, = 20 "
26+ 6.76 hr./pay period, = 22 "
SICK LEAVE:
Full-time employees earn 3.70 hours of paid sick leave for each payroll period, which equals approximately 12 days per year.
Part-time employees, who work 20 or more hours per week, earn prorated vacation and sick leave.
HOLIDAYS:
Thirteen days during the work year are considered paid holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Spring Holiday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
Part-time employees, who work 20 or more hours per week, earn prorated holiday pay.
PENSION: All Employees earning over $5,100.00 per year are automatically enrolled in PERA (Public Employees Retirement Association). This is a mandatory, defined benefit pension plan to which all eligible employees contribute 6.50% of their gross earnings.
INSURANCE: Houston County currently offers eligible employees a high deductible health plan with an employer funded HSA/VEBA option. 2025 employee premiums are $54.52 per month for single coverage and $426.12 per month for family coverage. Medica is our insurance provider.The County also has a term life insurance program for employees, which provides a $10,000 death benefit at no cost for full?time workers. For a minimal amount, dependent coverage is also available; $5,000 on spouses; and $2,500 on minor children.
Part-time employees, who work 20 or more hours per week, are eligible to participate in the insurance program and pay a prorated portion of the premiums.
Additional Benefits:Voluntary plans include: dental insurance; a vision plan, long-term disability coverage; additional life insurance; flexible spending account (health care and dependent day care); and deferred compensation.
Note: This is a generalization of the benefits available through Houston County.
01
Do you have a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school?
02
Do you hold a current license to practice law in the State of Minnesota?
03
How many years' experience do you have practicing law?
04
Do you have three or more years' experience working in public sector law?
05
Select the areas in which you have previous experience. Please check all that apply.
06
Do you have jury and/or court trial experience?
Required Question
Location : Caledonia, MN
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2024-00070
Department: County Attorney
Opening Date: 11/22/2024
Description
This posting will remain open until the position is filled.
First review of applications - December 9, 2024
Please see the application instructions at the bottom of this announcement.
The Assistant County Attorney II (ACA II) acts for the County Attorney, administering and enforcing the laws of the State of Minnesota and its political subdivisions. The ACA II is First Chair for all primary areas of responsibility include felony and misdemeanor criminal prosecutions, juvenile law, municipal and family law, and general civil practice in all of the courts of the state. Attorneys litigate, negotiate, advise, and counsel, representing the State of Minnesota, the County of Houston.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The ACA II fulfills his/her duties autonomously and without direct supervision. As the ACA II is the team leader for his/her designated area of expertise the ACA II is responsible to inform the County Attorney and other ACA(s) of changes in the law and developing trends etc. The ACA II develops and recommends policy and practices to the County Attorney.
As First Chair, the ACA II is the controlling authority to initiate and settle litigation and to effectively recommend courses of action to County elected officials and department heads subject only to general guidance by the County Attorney and state and federal statutes, regulations, and rules.
The ACA II analyzes complicated factual situations and directs County department heads and staff as to appropriate department or unit responses, including but not limited to the arrest of individuals, the search of residents' homes/businesses, the termination of parental rights, holds and commitments, and the drafting/review contractual agreements with significant financial obligations. Such decisions frequently require risk analysis so as to minimize exposure of employees and residents to physical danger, as well as minimizing liability exposure for the County. The work-load is heavy with questions coming from all divisions of County government which necessitates varied expertise. Decisions are often irrevocable, binding the County to extensive legal or financial obligations. Ensures the County Attorney is fully advised on all legal matters.
Essential Duties
- Crimes against persons
- Victim's Rights/Child Abuse
- Property Crimes
- Theft/Burglary/Vandalism
- Drug enforcement
- DUI
- Other Traffic/Boating
- Welfare Fraud
- Minnesota Government Data Practice
2. Human Services - Prepare petitions/motions/interrogatories/orders etc. and represent the County in proceedings:
3. Other Civil- Provide legal counsel to the County Board of Commissioners and the County's various department heads. Advise County officials on State and County ordinance/code requirements, and potential sanctions for violations. 4. Assist and review work of Assistant County Attorney I as appropriate. Other duties assigned by the County Attorney. 5. Assist Personnel Department in conducting candidate ratings/interviews for key County positions.This description describes the general list of responsibilities is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position and classification. It is intended only as an illustration of the various types of work performed. The position description is subject to change as the needs of the employer and requirements of the position change.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and hold a current license to practice law in the State of Minnesota required. Three years' experience working in public sector law. Extensive knowledge of the MN Government Data Practices Act and the MN Open Meeting law.
Additional Preferred Qualifications
- Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in two or more listed areas of responsibility, including trial experience
- Two (2) years contract law
A comprehensive knowledge of:
- Minnesota criminal law and procedure, rules of evidence
- Minnesota civil law and procedure, rules of evidence
- Specialized areas of law, including juvenile delinquency, child protection
- The ability to analyze facts and evidence and apply legal principles, and precedents clearly and logically in writing and orally in a professional manner
- Ethical standards of the legal profession.
must have the following knowledge, skills and abilities
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and an unwavering commitment to stewardship of the public trust;
- Proactive, objective, and keen analytical skills;
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills - both oral and written. The ability to translate complex statutes and legal concepts to the Board of Commissioners, Department Heads and members of the public.
Data Notice
Persons with Disabilities
The above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.
In compliance w/ the Americans with Disabilities Act the following represents the Physical/Environmental Demands
FUNCTION N/A25% - 49%50% - 74%>74% Office EnvironmentXSittingXStanding, WalkingXSimultaneous/Repetitive Hand MovementsXTyping/Data EntryXClose Vision (Near Acuity)XDistance Vision (Far Acuity)XColor Vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)
XAccommodation (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus)XHearing/SpeechXSedentary (Exert up to 10 pounds of force)XLight (Exert up to 20 pounds of force)XLifting, carrying or pushing of objects up to twenty-five (25) poundsXLifting, carrying or pushing of objects up to fifty (50) pounds XLifting or pushing of objects over fifty (50) poundsXAdverse movements such as overhead, bending, reachingX
NOTICE
A County employee in this position will encounter non-public data as defined by Minnesota or federal law in the course of their position. Any access to not public data should be strictly limited to accessing the data that is necessary to fulfill the defined job duties. While data is being accessed, the employee shall take reasonable measures to ensure the not public data is not accessed by unauthorized individuals. Once the work purpose to access the data is reasonably finished, the employee must properly store and secure the not public data in accordance with applicable County policies as well as Minnesota and federal law. All employees are expected to become familiar with and comply with the requirements of the County's Data Practices and Data Security Policies. A breach of these policies may lead to disciplinary action against the employee.
Status: Exempt
Job Category: Professional
Labor Group: Non-Union
Banding: D62
Last Reviewed: 03.2024
TO APPLY: submit your online application to Houston County by clicking the green "APPLY" button on this page. Please attach a cover letter and copies of any applicable licenses/certifications to your application file.
If special accommodations are needed to complete this application for employment, please contact the Houston County Personnel Department at [redacted].
Houston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Employee Benefits Summary
The following is only a summary of benefits and information contained in the County's Personnel Policy. However, it should be noted that the provisions of the County's Personnel Policy should not be construed as an employment contract or a guarantee of employment. Specific provisions relating to collective bargaining agreements or special rules established for particular departments are not covered here.
Vacation:
Years Employed Hours Earned
0 - 1 3.08 hr./pay period, = 10 Days per Year
2 - 5 3.70 hr./pay period, = 12 "
6 - 10 4.31 hr./pay period, = 14 "
11 - 15 4.93 hr./pay period, = 16 "
16 - 20 5.54 hr./pay period, = 18 "
21 - 25 6.16 hr./pay period, = 20 "
26+ 6.76 hr./pay period, = 22 "
SICK LEAVE:
Full-time employees earn 3.70 hours of paid sick leave for each payroll period, which equals approximately 12 days per year.
Part-time employees, who work 20 or more hours per week, earn prorated vacation and sick leave.
HOLIDAYS:
Thirteen days during the work year are considered paid holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Spring Holiday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas.
Part-time employees, who work 20 or more hours per week, earn prorated holiday pay.
PENSION: All Employees earning over $5,100.00 per year are automatically enrolled in PERA (Public Employees Retirement Association). This is a mandatory, defined benefit pension plan to which all eligible employees contribute 6.50% of their gross earnings.
INSURANCE: Houston County currently offers eligible employees a high deductible health plan with an employer funded HSA/VEBA option. 2025 employee premiums are $54.52 per month for single coverage and $426.12 per month for family coverage. Medica is our insurance provider.The County also has a term life insurance program for employees, which provides a $10,000 death benefit at no cost for full?time workers. For a minimal amount, dependent coverage is also available; $5,000 on spouses; and $2,500 on minor children.
Part-time employees, who work 20 or more hours per week, are eligible to participate in the insurance program and pay a prorated portion of the premiums.
Additional Benefits:Voluntary plans include: dental insurance; a vision plan, long-term disability coverage; additional life insurance; flexible spending account (health care and dependent day care); and deferred compensation.
Note: This is a generalization of the benefits available through Houston County.
01
Do you have a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school?
- Yes
- No
02
Do you hold a current license to practice law in the State of Minnesota?
- Yes
- No
03
How many years' experience do you have practicing law?
- 0-2 years
- 2-5 years
- 5 or more years
- No experience
04
Do you have three or more years' experience working in public sector law?
- Yes
- No
05
Select the areas in which you have previous experience. Please check all that apply.
- Criminal Prosecution
- Child Protection
- Juvenile Delinquency
- Child Support/Paternity
- Mental Health/Commitments/Guardianships
- Family Law
- Data Practices
- Contract Law
- Environmental/Planning & Zoning/Eminent Domain
- Litigation
- Employment Law
06
Do you have jury and/or court trial experience?
- Yes
- No
Required Question