Attorney III (Hybrid)

Closing Date: 4th December, 2025

Description:

About Us:
It's the mission of the NC Department of Transportation to connect people, products and places safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability, and environmental sensitivity to enhance the economy and vitality of North Carolina. We encourage you to consider joining NCDOT where our work not only serves the citizens of North Carolina but has an impact on our world through all modes of transportation.

Description of Work:
Recruitment Range: $87,849 - $103,184

If you are interested in being part of a dynamic litigation team that gets you inside the courtroom and in front of a jury, then this is an amazing opportunity for you! Join our incoming class of condemnation litigators by applying for one of the four Attorney III positions today!

• The Attorney III represents the N.C. Department of Transportation in eminent domain litigation at all levels of complexity. The attorney must strategically counter novel arguments and pivot strategy based on the circumstances of the litigation and the client's directive. The position requires a skilled trial attorney who is capable and comfortable with defending emotional and equitable arguments from opposing parties which are not supported by the law. The attorney will represent the Department in all levels of eminent domain litigation including - investigation, discovery, negotiations, vigorous motion practice, trials, and appeals.
• The attorney will become familiar with all aspects of the highway project for which the land is acquired, along with the maps, surveys, design and construction plans.
• The attorney will prepare and deliver legal presentations to the Right of Way Review Board, the Secretary's Review Board and to others upon request, and provide legal advice and representation to the Right of Way Branch with respect to questions of law involved in acquisition, appraisals, and valuation of properties.
• The attorney will prepare various legal instruments, including but not limited to deeds, contracts, releases, along with other written documents, opinion letters or responses when called upon.
• The attorney will represent the State of North Carolina in criminal appeals, which will include but not be limited to the preparation and filing of briefs, petitions and, if called upon, oral arguments.
• Some travel, including some occasional overnight stays are required

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences
Management Preferences:

• Three years progressively responsible professional legal experience;
• Demonstrated ability to effectively collaborate with management, colleagues and clients;
• Experience independently handling complex civil litigation from initial filings through a full evidentiary hearing and/or trial;
• Comfortable with written and oral arguments, trial advocacy and delivering legal presentations;
• Ability to multitask and prioritize case deadlines effectively

Minimum Education and Experience:
Some state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

Licensed to practice law by the North Carolina State Bar and three years of progressively responsible professional legal experience. NOTE: GS 114-2 and 114-6 make it the duty of the Attorney General of NC to represent the State of North Carolina in all litigation unless another statute specifically states otherwise.

The North Carolina Department of Justice, includes the North Carolina State Crime Lab, the North Carolina Justice Academy, and the Sheriffs' and Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Divisions.

The State of North Carolina offers employer paid health insurance plus twelve paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at Employee Benefits.

Supplemental Information:
Resumes and cover letters: To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must list the information on the online application form. This information is used to determine if you meet the requirements of the position, and if you are selected, it is used to determine a salary offer.

Using the terms "See Resume" or "See Attachment" will not be accepted, and your application will be rejected as incomplete. Cover letters are highly encouraged but not required.

Credit for foreign degrees will only be given if verification of degree certification is attached to your application. Transcripts for foreign degrees have to be evaluated by an organization like World Education Services to determine US equivalency.

Contact Information:
NC Department of Justice
Human Resources
EEO Statement:
The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.

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