Attorney 1 - Limited Term

Spokane County; United States; On-site; USD 78,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

Spokane County is seeking an attorney in the Counsel for Defense area. The role is grant-funded and involves civil or criminal work under supervision, with potential advancement as experience grows. Overtime is not required and a 40-hour week is typical.

The position emphasizes courtroom representation, legal research, and client communication, with pathways to promote from Attorney 1 to Attorney 2 based on departmental recommendation.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and WA Bar in good standing.
• If not admitted, may hire a JD with Rule 9 experience, sit for WA Bar within 1 year.
• One year of law clerk or legal intern experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Represent the County or a client in court, at trials and hearings.
• Conduct legal research, draft memoranda, and prepare trial materials.
• Negotiate settlements and advise clients on procedures and requirements.
• Review and prepare legal documents and evidence for proceedings.
• Communicate clearly with clients and maintain professional relationships.

Skills

Civil law

Criminal law

Legal research

Oral communications

Written communications

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

WA State Bar membership

Rule 9 internship experience

Job description

Employee Type: Regular - Department: Counsel for Defense - Salary: $77,593.91 - $94.393.34 annually - Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 - Overtime Eligible: No

Job Posting Date Range: 09/17/2026 - Until Filled

Job Summary:

Please note: This is a grant-funded position, and ongoing employment is subject to continued grant funding. This position performs civil or criminal legal work for the County Prosecutor, Public Defender or Council for Defense. The position allocated to this class is the first and entry working level of this series and is responsible for performing civil and/or criminal legal work under the general direction of the Department Head or Elected Official, or under the direct guidance, as needed, of a higher-level attorney. While allocated to this class, employees are expected to display an ability and willingness to assume responsibility and advance rapidly to a state of functional individual competency in the employee's assigned area. Area of work is assigned and reviewed for accuracy and completeness at the onset of employment; as experience is gained, less review and supervision will be provided. All work is performed within the departmental policy guidelines and applicable law. Positions of this class may be expected to assume the responsibilities of work of a higher class for training purposes. Promotion from an Attorney 1 to an Attorney 2 is determined by an affirmative recommendation of the department.

Job Description:

The following documents are required to be submitted with your application. Applications that do not include all required documents may not be considered:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Assists or independently represents the County or a client in court, at trials, hearings arraignments, depositions; files charges, arraigns defendants, sets release conditions, and schedules hearings; offers settlement negotiations; 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. Oversees the direct and cross examination of witnesses. Reviews pela paper work for accuracy. Prepares trial memoranda and jury instructions. Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited college or university school of law. Licensed to practice law, with WA State Bar Association membership in good standing. If not yet admitted to the practice of law, candidates may be hired who possess a J.D. and have functioned as a licensed Rule 9 Legal Intern with Spokane County in the nine (9) months prior to their employment application date. If hired under Rule 9 status, candidates must sit for and pass the WA State Bar Examination and be admitted to the practice of law in WA State within one year of graduation from law school as a condition of continued employment. One (1) year of prior experience as a law clerk or legal intern is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

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.

BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS

All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions: Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner. Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us. Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards. Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. As every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may reasonably be considered incidental in the performing of their duties as though they were included in this job description.

Total Compensation:

$86,325 - $120,823 Annually

The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices.

Please select the link below to view Spokane County Benefits: Benefits | Spokane County, WA

Here are just a few reasons:

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.

Spokane boasts:

Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there's something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent.

Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety.

Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness.

Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement.

Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University.

Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.

Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family.

Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas.

Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work! Click to learn more about our extensive benefits package.