Prosecuting Attorney 2

Spokane County

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The position allocated to this class is the second and journey working level in this series and is responsible for performing civil and/or criminal legal work County Prosecutor, Public Defender or Counsel for Defense. Positions functioning at this level, whether civil or criminal, require prior case preparation and/or trial experience at a level equivalent to Attorney 1. A higher level attorney is available for professional guidance and counseling on a case by case basis on unusual or difficult problems. A position may be responsible for one or more legal programs of the department where the complexity of the law and legal procedures, legal knowledge, proficiency, depth and complexity of case preparation is less than at the Attorney 3 level. Professional guidance and counseling may be provided to legal interns by the positions of this class. Promotion from an Attorney 1 to an Attorney 2 is determined by an affirmative recommendation of the department

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited college or university school of law.
• Two (2) years’ experience at the level of Attorney 1.
• Member of the Washington State Bar Association.
• Public Defender and Counsel for Defense Departments only: if not licensed to practice law in WA State, must meet the requirements under APR 8- Exception for Indigent Representation.
• Candidate must be a member in good standing of the bar in another state and have applied and be pending approval by the WSBA under WA Supreme Court APR 3.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of criminal or civil law as required by the position.
• Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Skilled in communicating effectively both orally and in writing, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction.
• Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with the general public and parties affected by the court and administration.
• Ability to analyze, evaluate and organize facts, evidence and legal procedures and to present information orally and in writing in a clear and logical form.
• Ability to analyze and prepare a variety of legal documents and instruments.

Responsibilities

• Assists or independently represents the County or a client in court, at trials, hearings arraignments, depositions; files legal documents and papers; and interviews witnesses, plaintiffs, victims, and/or clients/suspects.
• Evaluates the facts and examines evidence of specific cases or assignments.
• Conducts legal research, provides legal opinions or memorandums and drafts deeds, leases, contracts and correspondence.
• Addresses issues, questions and concerns from clients and/or their representatives regarding statutory procedures and requirements.
• Responds to written motions.
• Provides oral argument in court during guilty pleas, motion hearings, or other matters of law.
• Oversees the direct and cross examination of witnesses.
• Works with investigators, paralegals, and secretaries to manage court dates, filings, and case investigations.
• Assists former clients when they are asked to "return to court" on the basis of having violated probation.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.
• Represents the County or a client in court, at hearings, arraignments, depositions, sentencing and violation hearings on conditions of community supervision, termination of diversion agreement hearings, declination hearings, warrants to be issued (arrest and bench) and detention hearings.
• Files legal documents and papers, in the Clerk’s office.
• Reviews assigned cases for probable cause.
• Researches criminal histories, and determines points compiled by juveniles for the offense and standard range for sentencing.
• Prepares briefs and memorandums for appeal proceedings.
• Signs up new cases and conducts legal research, which includes but is not limited to: meeting with clients, reviewing police reports, reviewing body camera, reviewing video evidence, reviewing photographs, interviewing witnesses in coordination with investigators, securing funding for experts when necessary, and coordinating evaluations with experts.
• Dictates resumes, prosecutor’s statements and interstate witness subpoenas.
• Serves as liaison with Child Protective Services.
• Prepares for and appears in court for guilty pleas and probation hearings.
• Represents the State or plaintiff at arraignments, trials, sentencing and all pre-trial and post-trial hearings, including appeals in Court of Appeals and State Supreme Court.
• Provides written and oral legal opinions to County departments; drafts deeds, leases and contracts; is involved in discovery for trial preparation including depositions, document research and interrogations.
• Answers inquiries from private citizens or their attorneys.
• Prepares pleading, motions, orders and other court papers.
• Argues cases and motions in court or before an administrative body; and reviews/settles municipal claims.

Benefits

• Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents. Whether through public safety, infrastructure projects, or social services, employees can make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while contributing to the overall well-being and development of the community.
• Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more. This diversity allows for many employment opportunities for individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets.
• Job Stability and Benefits: Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees.
• Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications.
• Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well-being. If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place!
• Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees