Public Defender: Zealous Trial Attorney for Indigent Clients

Skagit County; Mount Vernon (WA); Hybrid; USD 83,000 - 156,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work schedule

Job summary

Skagit County Public Defender seeks skilled, committed attorneys to provide zealous legal representation to indigent clients in district, superior, or juvenile court. Our office handles misdemeanor and felony charges, civil matters, and involuntary treatment cases with a focus on client-centered defense.

The office supports attorneys with in-house staff and experts, encourages trial work, and offers a hybrid in-office/telework schedule to meet court and client obligations.

Qualifications

• Active membership in the Washington State Bar Association or ability to become licensed within probationary period.
• Experience in criminal defense or civil cases is desirable but not required.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, prosecutors, and courts.

Responsibilities

• Defend indigent individuals charged with crimes, in various courts.
• Conduct investigations, interview witnesses, and gather records.
• Negotiate resolutions and appear at pre-trial, trial, and post-trial hearings.
• Maintain client communication through the course of representation.
• Attend trainings and CLE to stay current with the law.
• Work with social services and treatment providers as needed.
• May require on-call duties on a rotating basis.

Skills

Legal research

Courtroom advocacy

Client communication

Investigation coordination

Spanish language

Tools

Microsoft Office

Court docket systems

Legal research databases

Job description

Skagit County Public Defender seeks skilled, committed attorneys to provide zealous legal representation to indigent clients in district, superior, or juvenile court. Our office handles misdemeanor and felony charges, civil matters, and involuntary treatment cases with a focus on client-centered defense.

The office supports attorneys with in-house staff and experts, encourages trial work, and offers a hybrid in-office/telework schedule to meet court and client obligations.