Litigation Assistant Jobs in Ridgefield, WA (NOW HIRING)

Note: This job will be posted through 11:59 PM of the day prior to the end date listed.

Current Washington County Employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity.

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About the Opportunity:

This position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications beginning May 20, 2026. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed as needed.

The Assistant County Counsel I/II with Washington County provides comprehensive legal services to assigned departments and represent the County throughout all stages of civil litigation, including investigations, hearings, trials, and appeals. They advise clients on legal and risk management matters, appear before courts and administrative bodies, and support a wide range of public agency legal issues.

This role requires handling complex legal matters with minimal supervision, strong problem solving skills, and the ability to develop practical, solutions oriented legal strategies. Collaboration, clear communication, and effective client partnership are essential.

If you are motivated by public service and eager to use your legal expertise to support a dynamic and growing community, we encourage you to apply.

Essential duties include:

• Pursues and defends legal actions in state and federal courts, including the Oregon Court of Appeals and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals

• Researches and analyzes legal and factual issues

• Prepares and responds to discovery requests and conducts and defends depositions

• Prepares, drafts, and revises legal pleadings, motions, and appellate filings

• Presents cases at pretrial hearings, trials, mediations, and arbitrations

• Researches, interprets, and applies laws, court decisions, and other legal authorities and precedents when preparing cases, opinions, and briefs

• Attends meetings with County departments to provide legal advice and counsel

• Represents the County before state and federal administrative bodies

Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of Oregon and Federal civil litigation

• Understanding of civil and local government law

• Skilled in managing discovery, depositions, trials, arbitrations, and mediations

• Ability to spot legal issues and apply legal principles, evidence, and precedents

• Strong legal research and analytical abilities

• Clear, logical written and oral communication

• Experience with Oregon Circuit Court, Oregon Court of Appeals, U.S. District Court, and Ninth Circuit practices

• Ability to negotiate settlements and advise clients effectively

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively and independently

• High standards of professionalism, ethics, and integrity

About the Department/Division:

Washington County Counsel's Office provides comprehensive legal representation for the County, including civil litigation at the local, state, and federal levels, as well as administrative and enforcement proceedings. The office delivers high quality legal services and practical solutions while upholding the highest ethical standards. Counsel represents the Board of Commissioners, the Sheriff's Office, all County departments and employees, and several affiliated entities, including the Washington County Housing Authority, Fair Board, Enhanced Sheriff's Patrol District, Urban Road Maintenance District, Service District for Lighting, and Cooperative Library Services.

Minimum Qualifications

To review the complete classifications, including the full list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) associated with these position, use these links: Assistant County Counsel I Class Specification and Assistant County Counsel II Class Specification.

Education and Experience:

Depending on experience, appointments to this position could be Assistant County Counsel I or II.

Assistant County Counsel II (Salary Range: $130,787.28 - $171,035.88 Annually):

• Bachelor's degree (BS or BA) AND Juris doctor (JD) from an accredited college or university;AND

• Five (5) years of experience in all aspects of state or federal civil litigation. Trial, arbitration, and mediation experience

Assistant County Counsel I (Salary Range: $112,983.96 - $147,744.96 Annually):

• Bachelor's degree (BS or BA)AND Juris Doctor (JD) graduate from an accredited college or university;AND

• Three (3) years of professional-level legal experience.

Additional Requirements

• Membership in the Oregon State Bar Association within 30 days of hire.

• Must pass a background investigation.

Selection Process:

You can review our standard selection process here.

Our commitment to you:
Washington County is an equal opportunity employer committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on knowledge, skills, and abilities. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony. We promote employee development and offer an award-winning benefits and wellness program as well as an opportunity to serve and support our vibrant community.

Veterans' Preference:
If you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for Veterans' preference for this recruitment, please review the instructions using this link:Veterans' Preference Points.
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act:
Reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or email:Careers@WashingtonCountyOR.gov at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.
Status of Your Application:
You will be advised by email of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. Please note that Washington County communicates with all candidates via email.

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