Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the “To Apply” section below to learn more.
New hires must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a condition of employment with the City of Olympia. Exemption may be granted for religious or medical purposes; however, accommodations will be subject to approval based on the essential functions required of the position.
The City of Olympia is accepting applications for four contract public defenders to represent indigent defendants in the Olympia Municipal Court. Positions one and two are 180 case credit max positions with an opportunity to carry a misdemeanor/gross misdemeanor caseload. Positions three and four are 360 case credit max positions with an opportunity to carry a misdemeanor/gross misdemeanor caseload. One of these positions will also cover arraignments on Wednesday mornings and may serve as a second public defender in community court directly after arraignments. Case credits are adjusted accordingly for this coverage. Applicants must be a member in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association with a minimum of one year of criminal defense experience. Experience handling public defense cases is preferred. Contract period for both positions run from January 1st, 2023 through December 31st, 2023, with a possible option to renew. The flat rate monthly compensation is anticipated to be based on the following scale:
180 case credits/year=$4,245/month.
360 case credits/year =$8490 per month.
Public defender must be able to meet caseload standards and quarterly certification. Public defenders work closely with the Public Defense Coordinator. Caseload tracking and reporting to the city is required.
Please submit cover letter, resume, and 3 references. Please indicate in your cover letter whether consideration for positions one and two, three and four, or both are desired. Please further indicate whether arraignments/community court interest you as well.
Only online applications will be accepted. Upon application, please email your cover letter and resume to: dwhaley@ci.olympia.wa.us
For questions email Diane Whaley, Public Defense Coordinator, at dwhaley@ci.olympia.wa.us Please provide three job references and email a resume and cover letter to Diane Whaley at dwhaley@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Only online applications will be accepted.
For questions email Diane Whaley, Public Defense Coordinator, at dwhaley@ci.olympia.wa.us