General Counsel

General Counsel serves as the chief legal advisor in all matters related to the County's operations, programs and policies. Work is performed independently under the general supervision and direction of the County Manager. Analyses, interprets, advises and informs County management and the Board of Commissioners on local, state and federal laws and regulations as it relates to a variety of legal issues to include operational, compliance, contractual and employment.

Essential Functions

Supervises assigned Legal staff, and performs numerous administrative duties associated with supervising staff, to include hiring, assigning work, providing guidance and direction, evaluating performance and taking disciplinary action as needed.

Oversees departmental annual operating budget; discusses budget issues and developments with County Manager and Finance; and ensures budget amendments/requests are appropriate, documented and support the County's goals and objectives.

Establishes departmental strategic plans, goals, and objectives ensuring strategic plans support the broad County mission, goals and objectives.

Provides legal advice and counsel to the County Manager, management team, assigned County Departments, and members of the Board of Commissioners, on complex legal matters, policy questions and operational procedures through oral or written response. Informs County Manager of internal and external issues that affect the organization.

Performs legal duties as assigned and requested by the County Attorney; provides information to outside counsel regarding local government law, as needed, as well as internal policies, procedures, practices, and customs.

Researches, develops and reports on relevant case law, statutes and regulations pertinent to administrative and operational functions.

Provides legal review for all contracts and legally binding agreements. Drafts contracts and agreements in matters initiated by the County. Receives and directs special projects, assignments or investigations which may be sensitive and/or confidential involving multiple divisions and/or external parties.

Ability to analyze the legal aspects of governmental problems and to provide sound advice and assistance to officials.

Ability to research and analyze facts, evidence, and legal instruments and to present facts, law, and arguments clearly, logically and persuasively.

Ability to express conclusions and arguments clearly and logically in oral and written forms.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Board Officials, County Manager, management team, department heads and staff, and residents.

Ability to interpret and apply constitutional provisions, statutes, administrative regulations, court decisions, and other precedents.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Requires a Juris Doctor Degree (JD) from an accredited school of law, and seven (7) years of experience in the practice of law, including work for local government; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses Or Certifications

Licensed to practice law in the State of North Carolina.

Must have a valid Driver's License and be able to maintain a safe driving history as defined by the Union County Vehicle Use Policy.

Special Requirements

None Specified.

Preferred Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Requires a Juris Doctor Degree (JD) from an accredited school of law, and ten (10) years of experience in the practice of law, including work for local government; or equivalent combination of education and experience.