Assistant County Attorney IV; Real Estate & Land Transactions

ASSISTANT COUNTY ATTORNEY IV

Job Title: Assistant County Attorney IV (Real Estate & Land Transactions)
Department: Law Department
Location: DeKalb County, GA
Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience

The DeKalb County Government is seeking a highly skilled and experienced senior Attorney to join our Law Department. This position will primarily focus on providing legal support for real estate, property, and land-related transactions and matters. The Assistant County Attorney IV will be responsible for managing and advising on a broad range of legal issues, including but not limited to acquisitions, easements, dispositions, public-private partnerships, title clearing, code enforcement, housing, and affordable housing initiatives.

• Real Estate Transactions: Provide legal counsel on a variety of real estate matters, including property acquisitions, sales, easements, and leases.
• Land Use and Zoning: Assist in matters related to zoning, land use, and property development, ensuring compliance with county codes and regulations.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Advise on legal matters regarding public-private partnerships (PPP), working with developers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to structure and negotiate agreements.
• Title Clearing: Review and assist in the process of clearing titles, resolving complex property issues, and ensuring clear title for acquisitions or dispositions.
• Housing and Affordable Housing: Provide legal guidance on affordable housing projects, including compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and advising on housing-related matters.
• Code Enforcement: Represent DeKalb County in code enforcement actions, including legal actions regarding property violations, non-compliance, and enforcement of county codes.
• Legal Research & Risk Mitigation: Conduct legal research and analysis to identify and mitigate risks in real estate transactions and development matters. Draft and review contracts, deeds, resolutions, and other legal documents.
• Collaboration with Stakeholders: Work closely with other county departments, including Planning, Public Works, and Housing, to provide legal support on land use, zoning, and property matters. Collaborate with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Compliance and Policy Guidance: Ensure that all real estate-related transactions comply with federal, state, and local laws, as well as DeKalb County policies. Provide legal advice regarding the county’s housing policies, land development regulations, and other relevant codes.

• Juris Doctorate degree required; six years of experience practicing law; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license; and must possess and maintain licensure from the Georgia State Bar Association.

• At least 5 years of experience in real estate, property law, land use, and transactional matters, with a strong focus on government and public sector experience.
• Extensive knowledge of Georgia real estate law, including title issues, zoning regulations, property acquisition and disposition, and public-private partnerships.
• Experience in affordable housing development, code enforcement, and land development is highly preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to present complex legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.
• Proven ability to negotiate, draft, and review legal documents related to real estate transactions and development agreements.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and with various county departments and external stakeholders.
• Experience in local government or public sector law, particularly in the context of urban development, affordable housing, or land use.
• Knowledge of federal and state programs related to housing and urban development.
• Experience in public-private partnerships and financing structures for land use projects.

• Ability to work in an office environment and sit for extended periods of time.
• Occasional travel within the county for meetings and site visits.