Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – After more than nine years of distinguished service as Marin County Counsel, Brian Washington will retire in June. The County launched a national recruitment for his successor, and the application period closed March 8. Following a review of candidates, interviews will begin in April and a Board appointment is targeted for May.
Washington, who has served as the County’s chief legal advisor since January 2017, will remain in his position through mid-year to ensure a smooth transition and provide continuity during the applicant review and appointment of his successor.
“Brian has been a trusted counselor, steady hand, and invaluable partner to the Board of Supervisors, County leadership, and our community,” said Board President Eric Lucan. “His integrity, judgment, and deep understanding of public law have guided Marin through some of its most complex policy and legal challenges. We are profoundly grateful for his service and leadership.”
The Office of the County Counsel, based at the Marin County Civic Center in San Rafael, provides legal representation and timely legal advice to the Board of Supervisors, County departments, and numerous boards and commissions. It also serves special districts in Marin County and other local government agencies. The office has a staff of 24 and an annual budget of $6.7 million. County Counsel reports directly to the Board of Supervisors and supports County operations and goals.
After earning his degrees at Stanford University and Yale University Law School, Washington dedicated most of his 37-year professional legal career to public service with county governments. The native of Davis, Calif., first came to Marin after serving 20 years with Alameda County’s Office of the County Counsel. He served as Chief Assistant County Counsel there for just over five years. Washington served as the President of the County Counsels’ Association, a statewide organization serving California’s 58 County Counsels Offices, in 2024.
“It’s been an incredible honor to serve the people of Marin alongside such dedicated public servants,” Washington said.
County Executive Derek Johnson said Washington’s tenure has been marked by a commitment to fairness, collaboration, and the rule of law.
“He has earned deep respect across the state’s legal and public policy communities,” Johnson said. “It will be a mighty challenge for us to find a lawyer of his caliber to lead this office. Brian has incredible integrity and experience, and his shrewd intellect and steady hand will be missed.”