Position Summary:
The attorney filling this position will act as court-appointed counsel representing indigent people in the courts of Grays Harbor County. The attorney will represent clients in all phases of criminal proceedings, including first appearance, arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation and investigation, plea negotiations, trial and sentencing. The attorney may also represent clients on probation violations, post-sentencing violations, appellate court remands, and conditional release petitions NGRI. The attorney may represent indigent clients in involuntary commitment RCW 71.05, truancy, Youth at Risk, and civil contempt. The Department of Public Defense represents people charged with criminal law violations in Superior Court (both adult and juvenile) and in District Court.
This position has room for advancement and training.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of applicable Washington State and federal law relating to criminal and other assigned cases.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations, engage in problem solving, work with upset or mentally ill people, negotiate with others and manage conflict.
- High level of analytical ability and logic. Ability to gather and synthesize large bodies of information.
- Experience with the use of personal computers, including internet resources and commonly-used office software
- Experience and familiarity with standard and commonly-used office equipment and modern business administrative tools.
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
- Ability to assure that absolute confidentiality is maintained as required and sensitive information is handled appropriately.
- Ability to maintain a high level of personal and professional integrity and honesty.
- Ability to work effectively in a multi-task environment.
- Ability to work independently.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Law degree from an accredited college or university.
- Admission to Washington State Bar Association.
- Qualified to represent Juvenile clients.
- Qualified to represent clients in compliance with Indigent Defense Standards, include “B” and “C” felonies.
- Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Working Conditions:
Works in an office or meeting setting; appears in a variety of courts, interviews clients in the juvenile detention facility and hospital, and interviews witnesses at a variety of locations. Sits or stands for long periods of time. May occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 30 pounds. Attends meetings or performs duties outside of normal office hours, and works extended hours during trials. Moves throughout the facilities and periodically drives a motor vehicle. Possibility of exposure to hostile and offensive language and physical harm from violent and/or verbally abusive clients. Uses appropriate safety equipment and follows established safety policies, practices and procedures.
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