Deputy County Attorney

This is a full-time opportunity with many benefits! As a Missoula County employee, you will be part of a team that is committed to positively impacting the community. The rate of pay depends on qualification and experience.

The Missoula County Attorney's Office is seeking a DEPUTY COUNTY ATTORNEY to join their team. This position performs legal duties for the County Attorney in the criminal division. After two years, at the discretion of the County Attorney, employee may be advanced to Attorney II status based on demonstrated competencies. After four years relevant experience, employee may be advanced to Attorney III. After eight years of relevant experience an Attorney may be advanced to Attorney IV.

Details: Priority screening will begin on Monday, January 26, 2026. It is in your best interest to apply by this date. Applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established, or the position has been filled.

To Apply:

• Please complete all sections of the online application, even if a resume is requested/submitted.
• Please include with a complete application the following attachments: A letter of interest, a resume, and a professional writing sample.
• Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
• Complete job description available upon request to the Department of Human Resources.

Prosecutes criminal offenders primarily in Justice Court and District Courts. Reviews investigative reports from law enforcement officers; determines what charges to file and who to charge or whether to decline prosecution. Files charging documents. Keeps victims advised of case status. Prepares for and makes court appearances in non-trial settings such as arraignments, omnibus hearings, change of plea hearings, sentencing hearings, etc. Interviews and prepares witnesses. Prepares court documents. Responds to motions and arguments from defendants. Represents the State in court appearances before judges and juries. Prepares witnesses. Prepares jury instructions and exhibits. Examines witnesses. Negotiates plea agreements with defense counsel and unrepresented defendants. Assists law enforcement officers with search warrant applications and requests for investigative subpoenas. Does legal research and prepares legal briefs, memoranda and other documents. Advises county agencies on legal questions pertaining to their functions. Prepares legal opinions, interprets statutes, codes and ordinances. Reviews staff reports and assists with complicated communications. Prepares legal documents for court. Negotiates with parties to resolve contested issues. Appears in court and handles regular court duties such as preparing witness, investigating evidence and witnesses, preparing findings of fact and conclusions of law and preparing other arguments, either orally or with written briefs.

• Requires a Juris Doctor degree.
• No prior legal experience required.
• S PECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be licensed, or eligible to become licensed, to practice law in Montana.

The work requires little physical activity, and the employee commonly remains in an office or court setting. Requires exposure to stressful situations and ability to react appropriately. Requires the employee to be on-call periodically.

Located halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks and home to the University of Montana, Missoula is an academic center situated in an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. Depending on the season, you can hike, ski, fish, float rivers, ride mountain bikes, or just sit back and marvel at the surrounding scenery. Join us in a scenic, sophisticated, and service-oriented Missoula!
Missoula County covers over 2,618 square miles of mountain lands varying in topography and climate from temperate river valleys to snow-capped peaks. Five large valleys and two major rivers wind through this mountainous region.
Missoula County is large and diverse, featuring everything from the spectacular scenery of Clark Fork River running through town to lush ranches and a growing economy of small business. Skiers, outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, mothers and fathers, business owners, vacationers, fisherman, retirees, students, and many others have grown to love Missoula County's boundless opportunities.