Butte County Attorney suggests boost in staff to address attorney shortage

In the heart of Butte-Silver Bow, a pivotal discussion unfolded during the Government Study Commission meeting on June 2, 2025, as officials grappled with the pressing issue of staffing within the county attorney's office. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as the need for adequate legal representation in both city and justice courts was laid bare.

Matt, a key figure in the county attorney's office, articulated a compelling case against the creation of a separate department for misdemeanors. He emphasized that the current structure, which employs two attorneys dedicated to handling misdemeanors, is efficient and effective. "Creating an entire another department would simply be redundant," he stated, advocating for a more streamlined approach that leverages existing resources. This sentiment resonated throughout the meeting, highlighting the importance of collaboration and support within the office.

However, the conversation quickly shifted to a more pressing concern: the difficulty in filling attorney positions. Despite competitive salaries starting above $90,000, the county faces a significant shortage of qualified candidates. Matt pointed out that many recent law school graduates, often referred to as "COVID attorneys," lack courtroom experience and prefer remote work opportunities. "They don’t want to come work in an office and go to a courtroom," he lamented, underscoring the challenges of attracting talent in a changing legal landscape.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of this attorney shortage. With neighboring counties struggling to fill similar positions, the issue extends beyond Butte-Silver Bow, affecting the entire region's legal system. The stress and demands of prosecutorial work, coupled with the allure of online legal jobs, have created a competitive environment that makes it increasingly difficult to recruit new attorneys.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of addressing these staffing challenges became clear. The county attorney's office is not just a legal entity; it is a vital component of the community's safety and justice system. With the right support and resources, officials hope to bolster their ranks and ensure that Butte-Silver Bow can continue to provide effective legal representation for its residents. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, but the commitment to finding solutions remains steadfast.