Ellis County Attorney Office introduces training position for law graduates awaiting bar results

The Ellis County Commission meeting held on June 3, 2025, focused on the introduction of a new job position within the Ellis County Attorney's Office aimed at addressing a gap in legal staffing. Assistant County Attorney Aaron Cunningham presented a proposal for the creation of an "Assistant County Attorney in Training" position, designed for individuals who have earned a Juris Doctorate but are awaiting bar exam results.

Cunningham explained that this role would allow the office to utilize the skills of recent law school graduates who are not yet fully licensed attorneys. He noted that while these individuals could perform approximately 80% of the duties of a licensed attorney, they would require direct supervision and could not sign legal documents independently. The position is intended to be a temporary solution, providing a stepping stone for these individuals until they obtain their full licensure.

The proposed job description closely mirrors that of a standard assistant county attorney, with some modifications to exclude sensitive cases, such as child in need of care. Cunningham emphasized that this role would not be a permanent fixture but rather a transitional opportunity for candidates who have demonstrated their potential and fit within the office.

During the discussion, commissioners inquired about the implications of candidates failing the bar exam and the potential for retaining them in the training position. Cunningham clarified that if a candidate does not pass the bar, the office would likely seek other applicants, as the temporary practice permit would be revoked upon the release of bar results.

The commission unanimously approved the job description, with a motion and second from the commissioners present. This decision marks a strategic move to enhance the legal team's capabilities while providing valuable experience to aspiring attorneys in Ellis County.