Public Defender Attorney I — Start Your Impact in Court

Spokane County; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Spokane County, the largest Public Defender office in Eastern Washington, seeks an Attorney I to perform civil or criminal legal work under supervision. The role offers growth as competencies develop and training guidance is provided.

The attorney will represent clients in court, file documents, conduct research, interview witnesses, and draft a variety of legal instruments under policy guidelines. A JD and WA Bar membership are required; a clerkship or internship is preferred.

Qualifications

• JD required and WA Bar membership; admitted to practice in Washington.
• Prior clerkship or legal internship preferred.
• Strong research, writing, and courtroom advocacy skills required.

Responsibilities

• Represent the County or a client in court, at trials, hearings, and depositions.
• File legal documents and papers; interview witnesses, plaintiffs, victims, and clients.
• Conduct legal research and draft memoranda, deeds, leases, contracts, and correspondence.
• Provide oral argument in court during pleas, motions, or other matters of law.
• Coordinate with investigators, paralegals, and staff to manage case timelines and filings.

Skills

Legal research

Oral advocacy

Written communication

Case management

Education

Juris Doctorate (JD)

WA Bar admission

Job description

Spokane County, the largest Public Defender office in Eastern Washington, seeks an Attorney I to perform civil or criminal legal work under supervision. The role offers growth as competencies develop and training guidance is provided.

The attorney will represent clients in court, file documents, conduct research, interview witnesses, and draft a variety of legal instruments under policy guidelines. A JD and WA Bar membership are required; a clerkship or internship is preferred.