Criminal Legal Policy Lead — Equity & Impact

King-County,-W; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

King County is seeking a collaborative, strategic, and deeply knowledgeable Criminal Legal System Policy Lead Advisor to Executive Zahilay. This role sits in the Policy and Innovation team and partners with the Public Safety Policy Lead Advisor to advance equitable policy across criminal justice systems.

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Innovation, the role translates policy into implementation, guides priorities, and engages a broad set of stakeholders to deliver accountable government

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in policy work affecting the criminal legal system, preferably in Washington state.
• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school preferred.
• Proven record translating policy into measurable results and programs.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Executive's broader policy priorities across public safety and the criminal legal system.
• Coordinate cross-departmental efforts across criminal legal systems (law enforcement, courts, jails) and monitor policy implementation.
• Serve as liaison to King County Sheriff’s Office, detention departments, and public defense to align priorities.
• Engage with the Superior Court and Prosecuting Attorney’s Office on policy.
• Represent the Executive in meetings and working groups related to criminal legal system policy.
• Foster cross-department collaboration to advance equitable policies.

Skills

Policy leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Policy analysis

Verbal and written communication

Relationship building

Education

Juris Doctor

Job description

King County is seeking a collaborative, strategic, and deeply knowledgeable Criminal Legal System Policy Lead Advisor to Executive Zahilay. This role sits in the Policy and Innovation team and partners with the Public Safety Policy Lead Advisor to advance equitable policy across criminal justice systems.

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Innovation, the role translates policy into implementation, guides priorities, and engages a broad set of stakeholders to deliver accountable government