Section Chief - Social & Health Services Division, Olympia

State of Washington; Olympia, Washington (WA, District of Columbia); On-site; USD 80,000 - 157,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a Section Chief for its Behavioral Health – Forensic Section in Olympia. This pivotal role involves providing legal representation and advice while supervising a team of attorneys focused on mental health services. The office is dedicated to public service and offers a diverse and inclusive workplace. With a competitive salary range and a comprehensive benefits package, this opportunity is perfect for legal professionals committed to making a difference in the community. Join a team that values professional development and work-life balance, and be part of a mission-driven organization.

Benefits

Medical and Dental Plans

Retirement Plans

Flexible Schedules

Telecommuting Options

Health and Wellness Programs

Professional Development Opportunities

Paid Holidays

Vacation and Sick Leave

Mentoring Program

Qualifications

• Graduated from an ABA-accredited law school or completed WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program.
• Licensed to practice law in Washington State.

Responsibilities

• Provide client advice and litigation representation for the Behavioral Health – Forensic Section.
• Supervise attorneys and manage litigation covering involuntary commitment dockets and appeals.

Skills

Litigation

Client Advice

Supervision

Mental Health Law

Civil Rights Law

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from ABA-accredited law school

WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program

Job description

Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at [e-mail]. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

All employees and volunteers of the Washington State Attorney General's Office serve a crucial role in the protection of the state, its people and resources, thereby providing an incomparable degree of job satisfaction. The AGO is composed of diverse, collegial and talented legal professionals committed to public service and advancing the public interest. For more information about the AGO, review the Office's Annual Report HERE and view THIS VIDEO.

The Office values a healthy life-work balance, a respectful, inclusive, and diverse workplace. Successful candidates will join an Office dedicated to providing exceptional legal services, supporting individual professional development. Benefits include:

1. A competitive benefit package with medical, dental, and retirement plans
2. Vacation, Sick, Military, Civil Leave, and Paid Holidays
3. Transparent salary schedule: MAAG salaries range from $80,592 to $156,996, as per Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA
4. The AGO will pay general bar dues for those starting on or before January 31st, per Article 10.8 of the AWAAG CBA
5. Flex schedules and telecommuting options
6. A formal AAG mentoring program
7. Health and wellness programs
8. Recognized training and career development programs

* * * * * * * * * * * *

The WA State Attorney General's Office's Social and Health Services (SHS) Division has an opening for a Section Chief in Olympia, WA.

This position provides client advice and litigation representation within the division, specifically as the Section Chief for the Behavioral Health – Forensic Section, supervising attorneys representing DSHS’s Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), focusing on the Office of Forensic Mental Health Services.

The division represents five state agencies, including DSHS and HCA, providing legal services across various programs such as mental health services, psychiatric hospitals, adult protective services, and more. Litigation ranges from federal class actions to administrative appeals, involving complex civil rights, mental health, guardianship, and other legal issues.

The team leader manages litigation and client advice for BHA, coordinating legal services among staff and covering involuntary commitment dockets, hearings, trials, and appeals.

Applicants must have graduated from an ABA-accredited law school or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program, and be licensed in Washington. The Office values diversity and public service commitment.

This position is represented by AWAAG/WFSE AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. Salaries range from $80,592 to $156,996, with a benefits package including health, retirement, and professional development opportunities.

Applicants should apply online, uploading a letter of interest, resume, law school transcript, and a writing sample (up to 10 pages), preferably as PDFs. For questions, contact Division Chief Natalie King at [e-mail] or 360-586-6485.

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a respectful and supportive environment for all employees and volunteers. The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and provides accommodations upon request.