Deputy Prosecuting Attorney I / II

Skagit County•Mount Vernon, WA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Prepares and tries, with supervision, primarily traffic and criminal cases in district court and handles appeals to Superior Court when necessary. May assist with felony trials in Superior Court and may prosecute offenders in juvenile district court and/or Superior Court. The role includes reviewing and screening complaints, evaluating evidence, developing trial strategy, coordinating with court and defense counsel, and keeping the Prosecuting Attorney and other parties informed of case progress. For the DPA II classification, duties additionally include prosecuting routine felony cases in Superior Court and misdemeanor cases in district court, handling all types of juvenile court cases, assisting with high-priority Superior Court jury trials, and preparing trial memorandums and jury instructions. The position works with law enforcement and court personnel and may direct the work of legal interns and support staff. Work is performed primarily in an office or courtroom environment.

Requirements

Graduate of a law school accredited by the American Bar Association.
Licensed attorney in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association.
For DPA II, at least two years of attorney practice with criminal trial experience or equivalent.
Knowledge of Washington State traffic, juvenile, and criminal laws; justice and superior court rules and procedures; and basic techniques for preparing traffic and criminal cases.
Knowledge of county and local government ordinances, policies, applicable regulations, and how they relate to County government authority and legal functions.
Ability to present evidence in criminal motions and trials and analyze and apply legal principles.
Ability to conduct basic legal research and apply research to facts, evidence, precedents, and legal problems.
Ability to present law, facts, evidence, and arguments clearly and logically in written and oral form.
Ability to work harmoniously with law enforcement and court personnel and maintain good public relations.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, officials, other department employees, and the public.
Valid Washington State driver's license; the posting states that one may be required.

Nice To Haves

District court and/or felony trial experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Review and screen traffic and misdemeanor criminal complaints filed by police officers or members of the public.
Review and evaluate evidence and present it at trial.
Confer with the court and defense counsel regarding amendments and disposition of charges.
Determine trial strategy, including the organization, timing, and order of evidence presentation and the appearance of witnesses.
Keep the Prosecuting Attorney and other concerned parties informed of case progress and direction.
Select juries when applicable, conduct jury and bench trials, and perfect appeals.
Work with law enforcement officers and provide legal advice in the investigation and preparation of district court cases.
Maintain statistics relating to all phases of justice court activity.
Handle appeals to Superior Court and the court of appeals as needed.
For DPA II: prosecute routine felony cases in Superior Court, misdemeanor cases in district court, and juvenile court cases.
For DPA II: present evidence and confer with judges or defense attorneys regarding modification, withdrawal, or changes to charges.
For DPA II: assist in high-priority Superior Court jury trials; prepare trial memorandums, check points of law, and draft jury instructions.
Attend or coordinate continuing legal education, including WAPA seminars.
Direct the work of legal interns and support staff as needed.
Perform related duties as assigned.