Pierce County Department of Assigned Counsel (DAC) is a large, collaborative, and diverse office committed to zealously advocating for our clients. This is an opportunity to work in a supportive environment with mentors, formal training, and opportunities to grow and improve in all areas of litigation and trial. As a County Attorney 1, you will represent indigent clients in all stages of misdemeanor criminal proceedings, including arraignment, motions, trial, and review hearings in district or municipal court. You may also be assigned to represent clients facing involuntary civil commitment at Western State Hospital, contempt hearings for failure to pay child support in superior court, or juveniles at truancy, at-risk youth, or other hearings in juvenile court. DAC offers a hybrid work schedule, allowing flexibility to work from home when possible. The ideal applicant has a demonstrated commitment to social justice and some clinical or courtroom experience. Pierce County provides a competitive salary and excellent benefits.
Core Daily Responsibilities:
- Provide legal representation for accused at in-custody arraignment proceedings.
- Preparation and presentation at pretrial motion practices.
- Trial preparation, investigation and presentation.
- Plea negotiation processes.
- Responsibility to present appeals to Superior Court and provide legal representation during the appellate process.
- Representation at sentencing proceedings, post-trial motions and revocation proceedings.
- May supervise Rule 9 Legal Licensed Legal Interns, if eligible.
- Manage a substantial caseload of clients.
- Provide legal representation to all eligible clients who are the subject of civil commitment proceedings in superior court, including representation at 72-hour hearings, 14-day hearings, 90-day hearings, 180-day hearings, motions to revise, appeals and other applicable motions practice.
- Trial preparation, investigation and presentation.
Recruiting Requirements:
- Graduation from an accredited law school AND
- Member of the Washington State Bar Association (in good standing)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in a courtroom or clinic
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