Public Defense Attorney Fellow/Clerk (3rd-Year Law Student)

King County, WA; Seattle (WA); Hybrid; USD 103,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension plan

Unionized workplace

Flexible schedules and telecommuting

Training and career development

Generous vacation and sick leave

Job summary

King County's Public Defense Attorneys in Seattle seeks 3rd-year law students, clerks and fellows for Fall 2027. The role features a hybrid work model, extensive courtroom exposure, and work across adult criminal, juvenile, dependency, and involuntary commitment courts with a seasoned team.

The package includes competitive pay, a pension plan, union representation, and strong opportunities for training and development to support meaningful public service careers.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Bar admission in Washington by July 2027 or admission in another state enabling Washington eligibility.
• Be at least 21 years old.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal representation for indigent clients.
• Handle stages from arraignment through trial with continuity of representation.
• Conduct plea negotiations, mitigation, and other resolutions.
• Engage in motions practice, including legal research and writing.
• Represent a diverse client base, including those with mental illness or trauma.
• Develop and implement effective legal strategies in collaboration with the team.

Skills

On-call availability

Travel willingness

Diversity & equity sensitivity

Strong communication

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Bar admission in Washington or eligible by July 2027

Job description

King County's Public Defense Attorneys in Seattle seeks 3rd-year law students, clerks and fellows for Fall 2027. The role features a hybrid work model, extensive courtroom exposure, and work across adult criminal, juvenile, dependency, and involuntary commitment courts with a seasoned team.

The package includes competitive pay, a pension plan, union representation, and strong opportunities for training and development to support meaningful public service careers.