Assistant Attorney General - Criminal Justice Division's Sexually Violent Predator Unit, Seattle

State of Washington•King County, WA

36d•$82,212 - $153,996•Hybrid

About The Position

The Bob Keppel Criminal Justice Division of the Washington State Attorney General's Office has an opening in the Seattle office for attorneys interested in prosecuting the civil commitment of sexually violent predators under RCW 71.09. Sexually violent predators are generally those persons releasing from prison who meet specific criteria under Washington law, to include a history of sexually violent offense(s) and a mental condition that makes the person likely to commit predatory acts of sexual violence if released to the community. SVP's are housed at the Special Commitment Center on McNeil Island unless court-approved for restricted release to the community. By identifying and interrupting those offenders most likely to commit new crimes, SVP Prosecutors make a unique and direct impact on community safety. We seek attorneys with demonstrated courtroom experience and exceptional legal writing and oral advocacy skills to do this important work. Our attorneys primarily practice in superior court, but also handle appellate cases in the Washington State Court of Appeals, Washington State Supreme Court and federal courts on an occasional basis. SVP cases are civil in nature but some aspects of criminal law come into play. Litigation duties therefore include discovery practice under the civil rules, taking and defending depositions, submitting and responding to interrogatories and requests for production, jury and/or bench trials, and extensive motion practice. Work in the SVP Unit is demanding but rewarding. The selected candidates will contribute to a collegial and inclusive work environment that includes attorneys, paralegals, and investigators dedicated to safer communities. History has shown that the high-level skills, experiences, and opportunities obtained from serving as an AAG in the Criminal Justice Division result in an extremely qualified candidates for future opportunities, both within the AGO and elsewhere. The positions are open to candidates able to work a hybrid in-office and remote work schedule in the downtown Seattle AGO office, but travel around the state for court hearings is sometimes required.

Requirements

To serve as an Assistant Attorney General, one must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program
Be licensed to practice law in Washington state
Applicants who meet the other stated qualifications and are actively pursuing admission by motion will also be considered
The applicants selected will be required to submit to and pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check conducted by the Washington State Patrol, Criminal Records Division.
The incumbent will submit to additional background checks as a condition of employment every five (5) years thereafter.

Nice To Haves

Significant courtroom experience and/or experience clerking in an appellate court or other appellate experience
Excellent writing and oral advocacy skills
Strong interpersonal skills to work well with others in an inclusive, collegial setting
Superior motivation and organizational skills
The ability and desire to develop complex litigation skills.

Responsibilities

Discovery practice under the civil rules
Taking and defending depositions
Submitting and responding to interrogatories and requests for production
Jury and/or bench trials
Extensive motion practice

Benefits

A competitive benefit package that includes affordable medical plan options, dental benefits and retirement plans
Vacation Leave, Sick Leave, Military and Civil Leave and Paid Holidays
Transparent salary schedule - AAG salaries are set between $82,212 and $153,996.
The AGO will pay the general bar dues of someone who begins their assignment on or before January 31st per Article 10.8 of the AWAAG CBA
Flex schedules and telecommuting options
A formal AAG mentoring program that complements the AGO's inherently collegial and supportive environment
Health and wellness program
Training and career development program that is recognized for its excellence and efficacy by AGOs nationwide
Positions located in King County are eligible for 5% King County Assignment Pay
A competitive state benefits package is also offered which includes a choice of medical/dental insurance plans, retirement, life and basic long-term disability insurance
In addition, there are non-financial benefits that include working in a collaborative and supportive work environment where professional development and work-life balance are highly valued.