Assistant County Counselor (Sheriff's Legal Advisor)

A career with Johnson County Government is more than just a job, it is an opportunity to serve a diverse and expanding community in meaningful ways. We challenge ourselves to be a different kind of government because we care deeply about our community and each other. Committed to our shared values, we provide excellent public service, seeking always to improve ourselves and our organization. We offer wonderful benefits, retirement plans, wellness incentives, a great organizational culture, and much more! If you’re searching for something more than just a job, something akin to a calling, then consider the challenge and opportunity of being a member of Johnson County Government!

Johnson County Government, in Olathe, Kansas, is actively recruiting for an attorney to partner with the Johnson County Sheriff's Office.  This attorney works closely with leadership within the Sheriff's Office to proactively identify and address legal issues including providing comprehensive risk assessment. The Assistant County Counselor (Sheriff's Legal Advisor) is able to provide legal services in complex legal matters with minimal supervision. First reveiw of applications will begin on April 7, 2025.  Additional responsibilities include: 

• All civil matters related to the Sheriff's statutory obligations and operations.
• Advising on and taking responsibility for all employee disciplinary matters within the Sheriff's Office, including representing the Sheriff's position on (1) grievances, (2) during disciplinary actions before the Civil Service Board, Kansas Human Rights Commission, or Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and (3) in agency claims regarding Sheriff employees.
• Responding to all Kansas Open Records Act requests, court orders, and requests for subpoenas concerning Sheriff's Office records.
• Reviewing and revising policies, directives, and similar guidance for the Sheriff's Office.
• Advising the Sheriff on matters related to mortgage foreclosures, tax sales, processes, writs, precepts, and orders.
• Providing legal advice regarding the Sheriff's responsibility for the County jail and all prisoners therein, including garnishments of prisoner accounts and requests for transportation to funerals.
• Advising on issues related to the disposal of property and evidence belonging to the Sheriff and/or Sheriff's Office.
• Providing legal training for recruits and new supervisors, as requested by the Sheriff's Office.
• Drafting and reviewing contracts for the Sheriff, including housing, and purchasing agreements, as well as multijurisdictional law enforcement agreements.
• Accepting service of process on behalf of the Sheriff, deputies, or claims and lawsuits against them when specifically authorized.
• Addressing any other matters as agreed upon between Chief Counsel and the Sheriff's Office.

Juris Doctorate, active Kansas licensure to practice law, five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney required.  

Masters of Law in local government law or another area of law relevant to the work of the Johnson County Legal Department and experience practicing in local government preferred.

Additional education beyond the Juris Doctorate may be substituted for experience.

Johnson County Government requires reference/background screening for all positions.  Specified criteria may vary by Department/Agency.

Physical, Environmental, and Special Working Conditions:
All County employees may be called upon to assist other departments/agencies in a declared emergency situation.