To provide a broad range of legal services directed at promoting the mission, vision, core values and public service objectives of Gaston County. The anticipated hiring range for this position is $109,595 - $130,149 The duties listed below are not all of the duties that may be assigned but are those that are considered as essential for an employee to perform. Represent the Department of Social Services in district court proceedings involving abuse, neglect, dependency, termination of parental rights, adult protective services, guardianship matters, child support enforcement, and related appeals. Prepare and review pleadings, motions, petitions, orders, contracts, resolutions, ordinances, legal notices, deeds, easements, and other legal documents. Conduct legal research and provide legal opinions regarding federal, state, and local laws affecting County operations and Social Services programs. Advise County departments, boards, and officials regarding legal compliance, risk management, policy implementation, and operational matters. Review and respond to subpoenas and assist departments with public records requests. Prepare County staff for hearings and legal proceedings by reviewing evidence, coordinating witnesses, and providing legal guidance. Negotiate settlements and resolve disputes when appropriate. Provide legal education and training to County officials and employees. Attend professional meetings and continuing legal education programs. Perform other related duties as assigned by the County Attorney. Graduation from an accredited school of law with a Juris Doctorate degree. Two (2) years of experience practicing law. Must be currently licensed to practice law in North Carolina. Valid Driver's license. Knowledge of legal principles, precedents, practices, and procedures applicable to local government and assigned areas of practice, including child welfare, child support, adult protective services, and related areas of law. Knowledge of judicial procedures, rules of evidence, and courtroom practices. Ability to conduct legal research, analyze facts and evidence, and apply legal principles to complex legal matters. Skill in preparing legal documents, including pleadings, motions, orders, contracts, legal opinions, ordinances, and resolutions. Ability to present statements of fact, law, and argument clearly and persuasively before courts, boards, and administrative bodies. Effective oral and written communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with county officials, employees, court personnel, attorneys, and the public. Ability to manage multiple assignments, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality. The applicant selected must undergo a criminal background check and pass a drug screening test prior to employment. In compliance with

G.S. 153A-94.2

(b) , if the position being filled requires an applicant for employment to work with children in any capacity, the County must require the applicant, if offered the position, to be subject to a criminal history record check conducted by the SBI. These checks must be performed in accordance with G.S.143B-1209.26, which authorizes the SBI to provide fingerprint-based state and national criminal record checks to cities and counties.