DEPUTY PROSECUTING ATTORNEY I - PROSECUTING ATTORNEY'S OFFICE

Benton County, WA • Prosser, WA

34d

About The Position

These positions provide legal representation to prosecute individuals accused of crimes in District, Juvenile, or Superior Court. Civil deputies provide advice and representation to County departments and officials. The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney IV position is reserved for prosecutors handling civil and criminal cases of the highest degree of complexity and significance. This is a career progression series opportunity. Employees are eligible for progression through the classification series based on attaining the minimum qualifications for each level and meeting performance measures.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• DPA I: One year of criminal law experience and/or internship preferred OR any combination of education and experience which would provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job.
• License to practice law in the State of Washington
• In good standing of the State Bar of Washington
• Valid Washington State Driver's License if driving a vehicle for County business
• Washington state criminal and civil law and related local statutes, ordinances, case law, and procedures.
• Duties and responsibilities of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office.
• Principles, methods, and practices of legal research and investigation.
• Judicial procedure and rules of evidence.
• Administrative policies and procedures of the County.
• The County's and Office's operating requirements, policies, procedures, and practices; and local, state, and federal regulations related to department programs and operations.
• Current office practices and procedures.
• Operation of standard office equipment and software consistent with this position.
• Taking notes and accurately incorporating essential details in preparing legal documents.
• Organizational and time management to prioritize duties to accomplish a high volume of work product while adapting to constant changes in priority.
• Plan, prepare, present, and conduct case strategies for criminal or civil cases.
• Interpret and explain codes, statutes, ordinances, and procedures.
• Manage heavy caseloads and maintain appropriate records, logs, and case files.
• Instruct and train in methods and procedures.
• Interpret and implement local policies and procedures; written instructions, general correspondence; Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.
• Read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and concise records and reports.
• Apply sound judgment and discretion in performing duties, resolving problems and interpreting policies and regulations.
• Communicate detailed and often sensitive information effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Think quickly, maintain self-control, and adapt to stressful situations.
• Maintain professionalism at all times.
• Maintain effective working relationships with individuals within and outside the organization.
• Maintain confidentiality and discretion regarding business-related files, reports and conversations, within the provisions of the Public Records Act and other applicable State and Federal statutes and regulations.
• Work the allocated hours of the position and respond after hours as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Trial advocacy training preferred

Responsibilities

• Reviews and evaluates factual and legal bases of cases filed to determine legal sufficiency. Directs further investigation as needed. If a criminal matter, makes charging decisions and prepares charges to be filed with County Clerk. In civil matters, consults with county policymakers as appropriate.
• Prepares cases through legal research, evidence review, witness interviews, and drafting legal documents; develops case strategy and organizes exhibits, questions, and arguments; prepares for and attends hearings and trials.
• Evaluates cases for appropriate disposition, conducts negotiations and plea or settlement discussions with opposing counsel, and maintains professional relationships to facilitate case resolution.
• Communicates with victims, witnesses, law enforcement, and other stakeholders as appropriate to provide information, coordinate participation, and connect individuals with services; collaborates with coworkers, other departments, and outside agencies.
• Works with the Division of Child Support to secure and enforce financial support obligations for children through legal advocacy and collection efforts. (Civil Division, Child Support).
• Assists and trains support staff as necessary.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Under general direction, conducts legal proceedings; determines strategy, organization, evidence presentation, appearance of witnesses, and jury instructions.
• Under general direction, provides legal advice and representation to County departments and elected officials.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree