Attorney I/II
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
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The mission of Yakima County Government is to provide accessible, responsive, and responsible public service through leadership and teamwork committed to understanding and meeting public needs. Guided by our core values of Integrity, Common Sense, Innovation, and Accountability, the Yakima County Assigned Counsel Office (Office of the Public Defender) is dedicated to ensuring that every individual receives professional legal representation regardless of their ability to pay.
The Yakima County Assigned Counsel Office has immediate openings for Attorneys at the Attorney I and II levels. This role is critical to the administration of justice, providing professional legal indigent defense for clients in District Court or Superior Court. Assignments may cover adult, juvenile, and Indigent Trial Attorney (ITA) matters, with specific duties shifting based on the evolving needs of the indigent defense program.
As an incumbent, you will handle cases of moderate complexity and seriousness under close to moderate supervision. Your day will involve evaluating the factual and legal sufficiency of cases at every stage of criminal or civil proceedings. You will analyze police reports, assess case strengths and weaknesses, and develop comprehensive strategies for investigation, plea negotiations, and trial preparation. Whether representing clients in criminal matters such as arraignments, plea hearings, and full jury trials, or in civil matters including civil commitment, truancy, and drug forfeitures, you will serve as the primary advocate for the client's interests.
Beyond the courtroom, you will coordinate investigations, interview witnesses and experts, and maintain strict client confidentiality. You will also engage in broader community and professional development by preparing appellate briefs, drafting pleadings, and presenting educational programs to local schools, civic organizations, or within the office.
This recruitment is open until filled, with weekly reviews of applications. Please note that current employees must apply through the Workday Job Hubs career section.
The selection process includes a background investigation, which may involve fingerprinting. Employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of this investigation. Additionally, candidates must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License and proof of insurance at the time of employment.
Yakima County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from minorities, females, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We ensure equal employment opportunities regardless of age, color, creed, disability, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political belief, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, military status, or any other protected status under federal or state statute.
Yakima County is a qualified Public Service entity for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. We are also an E-Verify Employer and hire only United States citizens and aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Disabled applicants may request accommodations to participate in the application and selection process by contacting Human Resources.
Work model: On-site
Planifyr
Yakima County Government operates within the Government Administration industry, headquartered in Yakima, Washington. The organization functions as a local public entity dedicated to serving residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the region. Its primary mission involves maintaining community well-being through the delivery of essential services and the management of local infrastructure.
The county's operational scope covers multiple critical departments, including public safety, health and human services, infrastructure maintenance, and community development. These teams collaborate to ensure road safety, support local economic activity, and provide necessary resources to the population. The organization emphasizes integrity and collaboration in its approach to governance and public service delivery.
Yakima County Government provides information on available job openings, community resources, and official news updates. By monitoring its channels, the public can access details regarding career opportunities and county initiatives that aim to foster a sustainable and thriving environment. The entity remains focused on its role as a foundational support system for the Yakima area.
Browse more roles: All Yakima County Government jobs, legal jobs on Recrutus.
Experience
4+ yrs (Mid Level)
Job Type
Full-Time
