Chief County Legal Counsel

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

Job summary

Doña Ana County is seeking a Chief Legal Counsel to lead the Legal Department, provide strategic legal advice, and oversee all county litigation and regulatory matters. You will supervise attorneys and staff, coordinate across departments, and manage a multi-million-dollar budget to protect county interests and ensure compliance with laws.

The role requires a JD, 8+ years of legal practice including litigation, and 5+ years of supervisory experience, with local government experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Eight (8) years in the practice of law including litigation, appellate experience, and coordinating multiple assignments.
• Five (5) years of supervising experience.
• Experience with local government operations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage the Legal Department, assigning casework to attorneys and paralegals, and oversee public records requests.
• Advise the County Manager, Board of County Commissioners, and other clients with legal opinions and litigation strategy.
• Oversee contracts, property transactions, and regulatory compliance, ensuring legal sufficiency and county interests.
• Lead strategic legal planning, cross-department coordination, and budgeting for the Legal Department.

Skills

Legal Leadership

Litigation Experience

Legal Research

Public Sector Law

Negotiation

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Doña Ana County is seeking a Chief Legal Counsel to lead the Legal Department, provide strategic legal advice, and oversee all county litigation and regulatory matters. You will supervise attorneys and staff, coordinate across departments, and manage a multi-million-dollar budget to protect county interests and ensure compliance with laws.

The role requires a JD, 8+ years of legal practice including litigation, and 5+ years of supervisory experience, with local government experience preferred.