Legal Intern (Rule 9) - Supplemental

Spokane County; United States; On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 20 hours per week

Job summary

Spokane County is seeking a Supplemental (Seasonal) attorney to perform legal research, trial preparation, and trial presentation in misdemeanant criminal or traffic cases under attorney supervision. This seasonal role requires knowledge of state law and professional responsibility, with duties including obtaining police reports, interviewing witnesses, drafting briefs, and presenting arguments in court.

The position may involve civil division work, collaborating with county stakeholders,

Qualifications

• Possession of a limited license to practice law in accordance with state rules (APR 9) or completion of one year of an accredited JD program may be considered.
• Knowledge of basic concepts of law and legal procedures.
• Ability to conduct comprehensive and thorough research.

Responsibilities

• Under supervision of an experienced attorney: obtains police reports, interviews witnesses, researches legal questions, drafts briefs; attends/deposes; presents cohesive legal arguments at trial.
• Conducts client interviews; discusses facts, charges, consequences, and possible trial tactics.
• Represents a client in court including pre-trial and post-trial hearings, motions and orders.
• Handles calendars, arraignments, show cause hearings, motions and trial work.
• Keeps client files up to date; performs other related duties as required.

Skills

Legal research

Trial preparation

Witness interview

Court presentation

Discovery requests

Interpersonal communication

Education

Limited license to practice law

Juris Doctor program (one year)

Job description

Employee Type: Supplemental (Seasonal)

Department: Prosecuting Attorney

Salary: $25.00 per hour

Overtime Eligibile: Yes

Job Posting Date Range: 11/03/2026 - Until Filled

Job Summary

The position allocated to this class performs legal research, trial preparation and trial presentation work in the courtroom on misdemeanant criminal or traffic offenses under the supervision of a practicing attorney in the Prosecuting Attorney, Public Defender or Counsel for Defense Office. Work is performed according to State Law and Code of Professional Responsibility, and reviewed for case preparation, thoroughness of research, and court presentation.

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

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Under the supervision, advisement and counsel of an experienced attorney: Obtains police reports and records; contacts and interviews witnesses; researches legal questions and prepares legal documents/briefs; drafts discovery requests and/or responses; attends/conducts depositions; prepares cohesive presentation for legal argument at trial.
• Conducts initial interview of client; discusses facts concerning the case; explains legal aspects of the charge and possible consequences; discusses possible trial tactics.
• Represents a client or prosecutes cases in court before a judge and/or jury including pre-trial and post-trial hearings, motions and orders.
• Handles infractions calendars, criminal arraignments, show cause hearings, criminal motions and trial work.
• Keeps individual client files up to date.
• Performs other related duties as required.

When assigned to the Civil Division of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office

• Under the supervision, advisement, and counsel of an experienced attorney, researches legal questions and prepares legal documents/briefs; drafts discovery requests and/or responses; attends/conducts depositions; prepares cohesive presentation for legal argument in State and Federal Court.
• Interacts with client agencies to provide guidance and resources on legal questions.
• Participates in drafting new policies/procedures to ensure the County is complying with the relevant legal and statutory guidelines.
• Represents the Prosecuting Attorney in liaising with County stakeholders.
• Assists in the Involuntary Commitment Act docket through case negotiation and contested hearings.
• Keeps individual client files up to date.
• Performs other related duties as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a limited license to practice law in accordance with the Washington State Supreme Court Admission and Practice Rule (APR) 9.
• In lieu of Rule 9 licensure, completion of one (1) year of an accredited Juris Doctor program may be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the basic concepts of the law and legal procedures.
• Knowledge of Washington statutes relating to civil or criminal law, evidence and procedure (depending on the area of assignment).
• Knowledge of legal procedures.
• Ability to conduct comprehensive and thorough research.
• Ability to provide effective and quality legal representation and advice with full knowledge of case facts and controlling law.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

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. Work may require occasional travel within the County, exposing the employee to weather extremes, various forms of precipitation and the hazards associated with travel on public roads. 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.

Additional Information

Up to 20 hours per week

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!