Chief County Counsel - Strategic Legal Leader

Doña Ana County; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 154,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Doña Ana County seeks a Chief Legal Counsel to lead the Legal Department, directing delivery of countywide legal services and providing strategic advice to protect County interests. The role involves managing budgets, supervising attorneys and investigators, and coordinating cross‑functional initiatives with county departments.

The successful candidate will oversee litigation, advisement on labor negotiations, and compliance with laws such as OPRA and OML while representing the County in courts

Qualifications

• Eight years of law practice including litigation, appellate work, and advising on legal compliance.
• Five years of supervisory experience; local government exposure preferred.
• Active state bar license with NM licensure or ability to obtain NM Limited License within 1 year.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Legal Department, oversee casework, and manage public records requests.
• Provide strategic legal advice to County management and boards; coordinate cross‑department initiatives.
• Oversee outside counsel; manage department budget and resource allocation.
• Advise on contracts, property, regulatory compliance, and Open Meetings/Records laws.
• Represent the County in state and federal matters and supervise personnel.

Skills

Legal research

Litigation

Negotiation

Public sector law

Policy interpretation

Written and oral communication

Strategic leadership

Team supervision

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Doña Ana County seeks a Chief Legal Counsel to lead the Legal Department, directing delivery of countywide legal services and providing strategic advice to protect County interests. The role involves managing budgets, supervising attorneys and investigators, and coordinating cross‑functional initiatives with county departments.

The successful candidate will oversee litigation, advisement on labor negotiations, and compliance with laws such as OPRA and OML while representing the County in courts