Attorney - Litigation Section - Civil Division

King County • Seattle, WA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Civil Division is seeking an enthusiastic and analytical attorney to join its Litigation Section, primarily focusing on tort matters. Attorneys in this section litigate cases in both federal and state courts, including appeals. Depending on interest and experience, there may be opportunities to work on employment cases. The Litigation Section defends King County and its employees and officials against lawsuits alleging personal injury or civil rights violations. Many of these cases involve King County Metro, the Department of Adult & Juvenile Detention, and the Sheriff's Office. The section also provides legal advice to these and other County departments. Attorneys may also collaborate with colleagues across the Civil Division on complex, non-tort litigation. The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is guided by core values of Integrity, Compassion, Professionalism, and Leadership, with a mission to do Justice by exercising power with fairness and humility, serving the community, supporting victims, holding individuals accountable, and developing innovative solutions. The office is composed of six divisions and specialized units, and it values diversity and inclusion, expecting all employees to participate in equity work and comply with race, equity, and social justice principles.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of litigation experience, complex, tort and/or employment preferred.
• Washington State Bar qualified (admitted).
• Member in good standing with the Washington State Bar.
• Must submit to a criminal history check.
• Commitment to equity and social justice work, including ongoing cultural competence development.
• Review the Rules of Professional Conduct and acknowledge awareness of obligations, particularly for those representing King County-related matters.

Nice To Haves

• Appellate experience is a plus.
• Enthusiasm, initiative, and an ability to successfully lead a team on complex matters.
• Outstanding analytical abilities.
• Excellent legal research and writing skills are critical.
• Demonstrable commitment to equity and social justice, including continued development of personal cultural humility/competence.
• Desire to litigate in state and federal courts.

Responsibilities

• Litigate cases in both federal and state court, including appeals.
• Defend King County and King County employees and officials in lawsuits.
• Handle cases involving personal injury or civil rights violations under 42 USC §1983, Title VII, or the Washington Law Against Discrimination.
• Provide legal advice to County departments, including King County Metro, the Department of Adult & Juvenile Detention, and the Sheriff's Office.
• Work on complex, non-tort litigation with attorneys across the Civil Division.
• Litigate matters focusing on the county’s business and policy objectives in areas where the law is developing.
• Develop multi-layered strategies using negotiation, policy, legislation, litigation, and/or appellate practice.
• Work closely with clients providing strategic advice, focusing on motions practice and appeals.
• Address issues of state and federal constitutional law, statutory interpretation, and developing common law.
• Commit to equity and social justice work, including ongoing cultural competence development.
• Work in the Litigation Section for at least two years before seeking a position in another section/division.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule that allows telecommuting three days one week, two days the next, with in-office work required on Wednesdays.
• Robust onboarding, training, resources, and support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed