Attorney - Litigation Section - Civil Division

King County•Seattle, WA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Civil Division is seeking an enthusiastic and analytical attorney to join the Litigation Section. This role will primarily focus on tort matters and potentially employment matters, based on the candidate's interest and experience. Attorneys in this section litigate cases in both federal and state courts, including appeals. 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. Additionally, attorneys have opportunities to collaborate with other attorneys in the Civil Division on complex, non-tort litigation. Attorneys in the Litigation Section also litigate matters that focus on the county’s business and policy objectives in areas where the law is developing. Because this work often focuses on areas where the case law is uncertain, the attorneys work to develop multi-layered strategies using the tools of negotiation, policy, legislation, litigation, and/or appellate practice. With an emphasis on motions practice and appeals, attorneys handling these matters work closely with clients providing strategic advice, and regularly address issues of state and federal constitutional law, statutory interpretation, and developing common law. Applicants must have a commitment to equity and social justice work, including ongoing cultural competence development. The Litigation Section makes significant investments in its members by providing robust onboarding, training, resources, and support. The successful applicant will be expected to work in the Litigation Section for at least two years before seeking a position in another section/division.

Requirements

Washington State Bar qualified (admitted)
Member in good standing with the Washington State Bar.
Must submit to a criminal history check.
3+ years of litigation experience
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

Nice To Haves

Civil (tort or employment) and/or Appellate experience is desirable

Responsibilities

Litigate cases in both federal and state court, including appeals.
Defend King County and King County employees and officials in lawsuits.
Provide legal advice to County departments.
Work with attorneys across the Civil Division on complex, non-tort litigation.
Litigate matters that focus 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.
Regularly address issues of state and federal constitutional law, statutory interpretation, and developing common law.
Engage in equity and social justice work, including ongoing cultural competence development.