Washington County Government and the Board of County Commissioners have announced Zachary J. Kieffer’s appointment as the new county attorney, effective immediately. Kieffer brings a wealth of legal experience, a dedication to public service, and a commitment to upholding the law and serving the residents of Washington County with integrity and distinction.

In 2023, Kieffer joined the County Attorney’s Office as assistant county attorney. He was subsequently appointed deputy county attorney, providing invaluable legal counsel and support to Washington County.
According to a press release:
A proud alumnus of Penn State University, Zachary earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2008, laying the foundation for his future endeavors in the legal field.
Driven by a passion for justice and advocacy, Zachary pursued his Juris Doctor degree at the University of Baltimore School of Law, where he honed his legal skills and knowledge. After graduating in 2011, Zachary was admitted to the Maryland Bar and gained admission to practice before the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.
Zachary’s legal career began with a prestigious clerkship as a Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Leo E. Green, Jr. of the Prince George’s County Circuit Court. This experience gave him invaluable insights into the workings of the judicial system and reinforced his commitment to upholding the rule of law.
In 2012, Zachary embarked on a private practice journey, where he gained comprehensive experience in various areas of law. His dedication to his craft and commitment to serving his community led him back to Washington County in 2014, where he joined Divelbiss & Wilkinson as an associate attorney.
In 2018, Zachary took a bold step forward by establishing his successful solo practice, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to client service. Throughout his career, Zachary has been recognized for his legal acumen, integrity, and dedication to his clients’ best interests.
Outside of his legal career, Zachary is deeply committed to his community. He resides outside Smithsburg with his wife, Claire, and their two children. In his spare time, Zachary enjoys spending quality time with his family, exploring the great outdoors, and giving back to his community through various volunteer activities.