Assistant County Attorney II

Essential Functions

This job description indicates the normal type and level of work expected of the incumbent. Incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as apparent or assigned.

• Drafts complaints for criminal prosecutions and prepares and conducts prosecutions of defendants in criminal actions in district and municipal courts on misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and all felony matters. Reviews law enforcement officers' reports, advises law enforcement officers prior to issuing criminal complaints, determines whether to file criminal charges and to what extent on misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor and all felony matters. Prepares all subsequent professional legal work through the prosecution and appeal of said charges. Determines which evidence and witnesses to use in a trial; judges appropriateness of plea bargains, whether or not to dismiss charges, and determines appropriateness of sentences on misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor and all felony matters within established guidelines and policies. Informs witnesses about court procedures and reviews all testimony before trial. Discusses possible plea-bargaining agreements with opposing counsel and attends pretrial and evidentiary hearings. Under supervision of County Attorney, determines when appeals are appropriate, conducts research, drafts briefs, and orally argues appeals.
• Consults, advises, and represents the County in juvenile delinquency, dependency, neglect and/or termination of parental rights petitions and in welfare appeal and inebriety/mental illness commitments. Receives juvenile complaints and prepares delinquency, dependency, neglect and/or termination of parental rights petitions. Performs all subsequent professional legal work through each petition's final adjudication, including but not limited to court trials, EJJ and certification matters.
• Conducts legal research, drafts and files legal opinions or memoranda. Drafts warrants, prepares search warrants, directs investigations, witness interviews, drafts pleadings and proposed findings, orders and judgments and oral arguments. Prepares and approves administrative subpoenas.
• Provides legal services for and represents Mille Lacs County, including the County Board of Commissioners and county departments/offices. Consults with and advises county officials, employees, representatives, commissions and boards regarding their respective powers, duties and obligations; answer questions regarding legal matters, including issues of paternity, child support, welfare, and various other county agency matters. Provides counsel for county departments/offices in developing policies and procedures. Works with county to develop and draft proposed legislation. Reviews civil investigations, memorandum, evidence to determine justification for and files civil lawsuits. Attends county Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment Meetings as legal counsel. Represents the County in litigation.
• Consults with and advises police officers and law enforcement personnel on law enforcement policy and procedures.
• Meets with and consults with members of the public including victims, witnesses, pro se defendants, advocates. Responds to inquiries about legal matters.
• Provides technical direction and limited work direction to other department staff members. Aids trainees as needed.
• Conducts grand jury proceedings when necessary.

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school and a minimum of two years’ experience as an Assistant County Attorney I or three years applicable experience practicing law outside the county; experience practicing criminal law (or civil governmental law when applicable) including litigation of proceedings regarding state, county and city matters required.
• Admission to the Minnesota State Bar (valid license to practice law in the State of Minnesota).
• Class D Driver’s License.

Selection Process

Applicants will be selected based on a review of training and experience. Top candidates will be invited to participate in oral interviews.

This is a continuous posting that will remain open until filled. First review of applications will be 09/16/2025 and ongoing thereafter.