Assistant Attorney General - Regional Services Division, Bellingham

State of Washington•Whatcom County – Bellingham, WA

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State Attorney General's Office is seeking an attorney to join its Regional Services Division in Bellingham, WA. This role offers an opportunity for public service, with a focus on litigation and client advice, particularly within the Juvenile Litigation team. While primarily assigned to juvenile cases, there will be opportunities to work with a variety of clients, including state agencies and educational institutions. The position is located in Bellingham, Washington, a city known for its outdoor recreation and vibrant community. The office emphasizes public service, collaboration, and a healthy work-life balance. The Attorney General's Office (AGO) values diversity, inclusion, and professional development, offering a supportive and collegial work environment.

Requirements

Graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program.
Licensed to practice law in Washington State (or actively pursuing admission).
Ability to adapt to a practice involving assignment of 60 or more cases at a time.
Ability to shift from one type of work to another during a given week or day.
Interest in civil litigation, including discovery, drafting motions and briefs, negotiating, and presenting oral arguments.
Ability to travel to assigned counties and throughout the state.
Ability to use electronic files and case management tools.
Ability to contribute positively to a team and interact successfully with interested groups and members of the public.
Outstanding oral and written communication skills.
Ability to multitask by managing an active caseload and meeting tight deadlines.
Values working in an inclusive, creative, and collaborative work environment.
Commitment to public service.

Nice To Haves

New law school graduate looking to develop litigation and client advice skills.
Experienced attorney looking to join a team committed to outstanding public service and work-life balance.
Interest in a diverse trial and appellate practice.

Responsibilities

Work in a fast-paced litigation environment with frequent state court docket and trial appearances.
Represent various state agencies and higher education institutions in Skagit, Whatcom, Island, and San Juan Counties.
Primarily represent the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) in child welfare cases, including dependency, guardianship, and termination of parental rights cases.
Represent DCYF in childcare, foster care, and group care licensing cases, including advising on regulatory enforcement and representing the agency in contested matters.
Evaluate evidence to determine legal sufficiency for court intervention.
Apply the Indian Child Welfare Act and the Washington Indian Child Welfare Act to juvenile cases.
Review relevant petitions and other documents.
Consult with social workers and other agency employees.
Submit and respond to discovery.
Prepare witnesses and evidence for hearings or trials.
Review reports submitted to the court.
Perform research and analysis.
Submit relevant briefing to the court.
Communicate frequently with other attorneys and guardians ad litem to resolve case issues.
Consider settlement options.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Travel regionally within Washington State.