The Department of Public Defense (DPD) is renowned nationally for its excellent legal representation to indigent clients in the only county in the United States named after Martin Luther King Jr, one of the most influential civil rights leaders in our nations' history. King County is a vibrant community with residents that represent countries from around the world. It is a region with increasing diversity that cherishes the artistic and social traditions of many cultures. Together, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence.
The Department is looking for talented, committed, hardworking advocates with excellent trial, research, and writing skills, and an ability to work in a fast-paced environment. The successful applicant will have a passion for public defense and a demonstrated commitment to helping those who are less fortunate. He or she will also have a demonstrated ability to receive feedback and integrate that feedback into his or her practice. The scope of representation expected by an attorney is determined by the nature of the case assignment and in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct. Caseload standards established by the State Supreme Court and that foster excellence in legal representation are observed in accordance with Washington State Bar Association guidelines. Attorneys in the Department of Public Defense are expected to complete all required trainings and to actively advance their level of practice by seeking additional learning opportunities.
To learn more about DPD, please check out our website at: http://www.kingcounty.gov/courts/public-defense.aspx
Who May Apply: DPD is accepting applications from attorneys possessing between three to five years of experience in either criminal defense or family defense. This recruitment is open to all qualified candidates and may be used to fill current and/or future full-time career service positions in any of the Department's four divisions and/or office locations in King County. Rotation of staff practice area and/or work location occur based on business need.
Interviews will be conducted starting the last week of February and continuing through March with estimated desired start dates being April through June 2018.
JD from an accredited law school.
Three to five years criminal defense or family defense experience
Demonstrated commitment to advocacy for disadvantaged individuals and/or issues of economic, social and racial justice.
Excellent demonstrated analytical, research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
Ability to manage a caseload in a fast-paced environment.
Admission to Washington State Bar Association or licensing in other states qualifying for a license under Rule 8.
A valid Washington State driver's license or the ability to travel throughout King County in a timely manner.
ALSO DESIRED:
Proficiency in languages other than English, particularly Spanish.
Clinical training in public defense.
Where to Apply: Interested individuals should submit an online King County application, cover letter, resume, and short writing sample. To apply, please visit: http://www.kingcounty.gov/audience/employees/careers.aspx