Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Assistant Jefferson County Attorney Jefferson County Attorney's Office Fairfield, Iowa Position Type:
Full-Time Salary Range:
$65,000-$99,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
Expected Start Date:
Before August 2026 (flexible)
Application Deadline:
Open until filled Serve the Public. Gain Courtroom Experience. Make a Difference. The Jefferson County Attorney's Office is seeking an Assistant County Attorney to join a small, collaborative office committed to public service, justice, and effective local government. This position offers a unique opportunity to build substantial courtroom experience while maintaining a diverse legal practice. The successful candidate will prosecute criminal offenses, handle juvenile matters, represent the State in mental health commitment proceedings, and provide legal counsel to county government officials and agencies. Unlike many larger offices where attorneys may become highly specialized, this position offers meaningful responsibility across multiple areas of law and the opportunity to appear regularly in court, work directly with elected officials and law enforcement, and play a visible role in the community. Primary Responsibilities The Assistant County Attorney will: Prosecute simple, serious, and aggravated misdemeanor criminal cases. Conduct plea negotiations, motion practice, evidentiary hearings, bench trials, jury trials, and sentencing proceedings. Handle juvenile delinquency matters and represent the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services in child welfare proceedings. Represent the State in involuntary mental health commitment proceedings. Conduct legal research and prepare pleadings, motions, briefs, memoranda, and other legal documents. Advise the Jefferson County Board of Supervisors, county departments, township officials, and law enforcement agencies on legal matters. Draft and review contracts, resolutions, policies, ordinances, and other governmental documents. Attend meetings of county boards and agencies as required. Collaborate with law enforcement, court personnel, service providers, and community stakeholders. QualificationsRequired Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Licensed to practice law in Iowa or eligible for admission to the Iowa Bar. Strong legal research, writing, advocacy, and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Prior prosecution, litigation, or government law experience. Experience handling juvenile court matters. Experience with involuntary commitment proceedings. Familiarity with Iowa county government operations and local government law. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is interested in public service and seeking a practice that combines litigation, courtroom advocacy, and local government law. Successful applicants will be comfortable handling significant courtroom responsibilities, including jury trials, while also providing legal advice to county officials and agencies. Candidates should enjoy legal research and writing, possess sound judgment, and be willing to engage thoughtfully with challenging legal issues and difficult factual circumstances. This position is particularly well suited for attorneys who want meaningful responsibility early in their careers, experienced attorneys seeking a broader practice, or individuals interested in making a tangible impact in a smaller community. About Jefferson County Jefferson County is located in southeast Iowa and is home to approximately 15,000 residents. The county seat, Fairfield, has a population of approximately 10,000 and offers a vibrant community with a strong arts, entrepreneurial, and cultural presence.
Jefferson County is located approximately:
1 hour south of Iowa City 2 hours southeast of Des Moines Between Ottumwa and Burlington Work Environment This position is based in Fairfield, Iowa and involves work in office, courtroom, and community settings. Regular attendance at court proceedings, meetings, and related functions is required. Occasional travel within Iowa may be necessary. Work hours are generally flexible but may extend beyond normal business hours due to court schedules, trials, emergencies, or other county needs. To Apply Please submit a cover letter and résumé/CV to: Chauncey T.
Moulding Jefferson County Attorney Email:
Jeffcoatty@lisco.com Applications will be reviewed as received and the position will remain open until filled.
