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Washington State ESD

Assistant Attorney General - Spokane Division's Social & Health Services Section

Washington State ESD, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127

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Overview

Christine O. Gregoire Spokane Division has an immediate opening for an Assistant Attorney General in the Social and Health Services (SHS) Section. This position is based in Spokane, Washington. Spokane is a vibrant and beautiful city that offers four distinct seasons and a range of outdoor and indoor activities. The Spokane SHS Section is comprised of 24 attorneys, 24 paralegals, 3 legal assistants and 2 legal office assistants. The attorney in this position will appear in court weekly and maintain a high volume, fast paced, active and sometimes contentious litigation caseload of juvenile welfare work, including dependency and termination of parental rights cases, and foster care and childcare licensing cases. The child welfare cases generally arise based on allegations of child abuse or neglect by the parents or legal custodians. A typical day may involve litigating matters in juvenile court, meetings with the client, communicating with various parties via email and preparing for fact-finding and termination of parental rights trials. Attorneys in this section are also responsible for handling appellate litigation arising from trials. The attorney may be required to travel to courts in counties outside of Spokane. We currently have a need for an attorney to handle cases in Adams and Lincoln Counties. Although the currently available assignment includes the described work, the attorney will be part of a team with varied assignments that also include DSHS clients and work related to protecting other vulnerable populations. All attorneys in this team are expected to assist coworkers as needed to ensure client needs are met. The attorney may have future opportunities to experience other areas of law or change assignments depending on interest and team needs. Responsibilities

In addition to meeting the requirements to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, the successful candidate will have: An expressed interest in the practice of public sector law; Strong desire to litigate on a regular basis; Strong writing and oral advocacy skills; Exceptional communication skills; Excellent organizational skills; Desire to work in a fast paced environment; The ability to handle a heavy caseload through multi-tasking in cases involving often difficult subject matter; Experience communicating or working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences; and A willingness to practice independently in Eastern Washington counties outside of Spokane either sporadically or on a consistent basis. Other duties include the ability to successfully negotiate contested matters, interview witnesses, review discovery, and provide effective client advice. This position has familiarity not only with state and federal laws governing child welfare cases, but also with the Administrative Procedures Act. While litigation experience or experience in juvenile law is a plus, they are not required. The candidate will also need to work in a fast-paced team environment and promote a positive work environment founded on mutual respect and professionalism. Qualifications

Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA\'s Rule 6 Law Clerk Program; and be licensed to practice law in Washington State. Applicants who meet the other stated qualifications and are actively pursuing admission will also be considered. The AGO seeks applicants who are committed to public service as demonstrated by an applicant\'s background, talents, attitude, and enthusiasm for public law practice. The AGO values diversity and an inclusive environment. Interest in public sector law; willingness to litigate; strong advocacy and communication skills; ability to work in a fast-paced environment; and readiness to work independently in certain counties. Other information includes: the position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / WFSE AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. AAG salaries are set between $82,212 and $153,996 with placement per Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. Benefits include a competitive package and a collaborative environment. The AGO emphasizes environmental stewardship and has related policies. Application Process

Interested applicants must apply online. In addition to the online application, please upload, preferably as PDFs: Letter of interest; Resume; Law school transcript (unofficial copy acceptable); Writing sample (10 pages or less). For questions about the position, contact SHS Section Chief Katie Christopherson at Katie.Christopherson@atg.wa.gov or (509) 456-3123. This office does not use the E-Verify system; information about OPT may be found at USCIS. The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, veteran status, disability, or the use of a service animal. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HREmployment@atg.wa.gov. Those with a hearing impairment are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or washingtonrelay.com.

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