Civil Legal Extern Program - Recruiting for Summer 2026

King County (WA)•Seattle, WA

57d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Civil Division Externship Program is designed to give students a 10-week meaningful experience and exposure to the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office civil practice. The Civil Division is organized into eight different sections - contracts, county services, transportation and real property, employment, land use, natural resources, litigation, and involuntary treatment. Our attorneys provide comprehensive legal services to the King County government, including representing King County in lawsuits filed in state or federal courts and collaborating with client agencies to develop, fund, deliver, manage, and defend public projects, legislation, and initiatives that affect every aspect of civil society. A civil externship is an excellent way to become acquainted with the office, pursue an interest in civil law, and determine whether this is a future career path. About the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office Guided by our core values of Integrity, Compassion, Professionalism and Leadership, our mission is to do Justice: We exercise the power given to us by the people with fairness and humility. We serve our diverse community, support victims and families, and hold individuals accountable. We develop innovative and collaborative solutions for King County and the State of Washington. We value diversity and strive to hire a workforce that reflects the community that we serve. It is essential to our mission that we create and maintain an office that is diverse and inclusive. All PAO employees are expected to participate in PAO equity work and attend equity trainings and discussions. PAO employees are expected to comply with equity and social justice principles, and to work with PAO colleagues and management to identify opportunities for improvement. Our office is comprised of six divisions that are further organized into specialized units: To learn more about the Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO), please visit our website.

Requirements

Must be a current 1L, who will be between their first and second years of law school during summer 2026.
Candidates must have a genuine interest in public service and civil law.
Basic legal and writing skills.
Willingness to work under deadlines.
Must submit to a criminal history check.
The ability to consistently maintain a high standard of professionalism in interactions and conduct within a law office and courtroom setting.

Responsibilities

Civil externs may do various projects for different sections, including legal research and writing as well as observe and provide general support for depositions, mediations, court hearings and trials.

Benefits

Many law schools offer credit and some offer fellowships or grants.
Our office also offers a $85/week travel stipend.
Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what's best for themselves and their eligible dependents
Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays
Generous vacation and paid sick leave
Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves
Flexible Spending Account
Wellness programs
Onsite activity centers
Employee Giving Program
Employee assistance programs
Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
Training and career development programs