Executive Deputy General Counsel – State Government

West Virginia; Charleston (WV); On-site; USD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

The Office of the Governor in West Virginia seeks a Deputy General Counsel to provide executive-level legal counsel, strategic advice, and policy support to the Governor, staff, and state agencies. The role requires a J.D., WV Bar admission, and 3–5 years in admin/government law.

Duties include drafting legislation, reviewing contracts and MOUs, and guiding FOIA responses while maintaining the highest professional standards. This is an on-site role in Charleston, WV.

Qualifications

• J.D. from ABA-accredited law school.
• Active WV State Bar member or eligible for immediate admission.
• 3–5 years of complex legal practice in administrative law, government operations, constitutional law, or legislative affairs.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication; ability to research under tight deadlines; strong interpersonal collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice to the Governor and executive staff on constitutional provisions, statutes, regulations, and executive orders.
• Counsel cabinet secretaries and agencies to align actions with policy priorities and legal mandates.
• Review, analyze, and draft proposed legislation and advise on implications and constitutionality.
• Draft and finalize Executive Orders, proclamations, and other official instruments.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal laws and respond to FOIA requests.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Legal research

Interpersonal skills

Education

J.D. from ABA-accredited law school

Active WV State Bar member (or eligible)

Job description

The Office of the Governor in West Virginia seeks a Deputy General Counsel to provide executive-level legal counsel, strategic advice, and policy support to the Governor, staff, and state agencies. The role requires a J.D., WV Bar admission, and 3–5 years in admin/government law.

Duties include drafting legislation, reviewing contracts and MOUs, and guiding FOIA responses while maintaining the highest professional standards. This is an on-site role in Charleston, WV.