Assistant Corporation Counsel
Do you desire to serve citizens of Portage County in the legal arena dealing with children in need of protective services and termination of parental rights? If you have the drive and skills to succeed in this role, consider applying!
The Portage County Corporation Counsel currently has a full-time Assistant Corporation Counsel position opening.
Position Summary:
This is a full-time professional level position primarily tasked with the legal enforcement of actions involving Child Protective Services (CPS) for the Portage County Health and Human Services Department (PCHHS).
Cases primarily involve Children in Need of Protection and Services (CHIPS) and Termination of Parental Rights (TPRs). This position will provide overall responsibility for all phases of these actions including investigation, filing, litigation and disposition from start to finish, enabling a continuity of legal services.
Additional secondary duties consist of backup general corporation counsel functions, provide representation in court or in administrative tribunals as necessary and advising department heads, county employees, the County Board and all its committees and county supervisors with respect to municipal legal matters. The Office of the Corporation Counsel attorney will in turn provide support, oversight, and backup for this position. As needed, this position will represent and provide legal advice and counsel to county agencies and departments including but not limited to the Child Support Agency, the Health and Human Services Department, the Planning & Zoning Department, and others as assigned. As needed, this position may also coordinate legal review and activities with the general public and municipal officials, such as city, village and town officials, and state officials, in their interaction with county officials and departments. Essential functions include:
Chapter 48 “Child in Need of Protection and/or Services” (CHIPS) actions. Legal work as assigned and overseen by corporation counsel office attorneys and by Portage County Health and Human Services (PCHHS), pursuant to contract for services with the corporation counsel office.
Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) Responsibilities. Legal work as assigned and overseen by corporation counsel office attorneys and by PCHHS, pursuant to contract for services with the corporation counsel office.
General Municipal and Litigation Work. Legal work as assigned and overseen by corporation counsel office attorneys.
What are the minimum qualifications?
Juris Doctorate degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school
Membership in the State Bar of Wisconsin.
Legal and municipal experience (three years) preferred. The position requires a bona fide interest and/or experience for the law of Child Protective Services (CPS).
Trial experience in municipal law and juvenile law including termination of parental rights preferred.
Valid state driver’s license and access to vehicle with insurance.
Satisfactory completion of a thorough background check, including license check with Wisconsin State Bar.
Any combination of experience and professional training which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities.
Email HR@co.portage.wi.us for a copy of the detailed position description.
What kind of benefits does Portage County offer?
Vacation – available on date of hire!
State of Wisconsin Retirement Plan
Health insurance- your choice of two health plans- (Health Savings Account associated with the High Deductible Health Plan with a County contribution or a PPO Co-pay plan)
Employee Wellness program
EAP (Employee Assistance Plan) Paid by the County
Paid holidays
Sick pay
Flexible spending account
Life insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hours/week)
Long term disability insurance- premium paid by the County (must work a minimum of 30 hours/week)
Dental insurance
457B Deferred Compensation Plan
Portage County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
Deadline Note:
