The County Attorney's Office advises Wake County officials and departments on legal matters and represents the County in court and legal negotiations. The office provides legal advice and answers questions relating to statutes, rules, regulations or court interpretations. The office also drafts legal documents, researches legal precedents, advises officials on legal implications of actions, and studies County policies, procedures and actions to ensure compliance with the law.

The County Attorney is hired by and serves at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners, under separate contract to the Board from other County employees.