***All applicants must submit their materials by clicking the application link here or by going to www.careers.wa.gov, filter by department (Attorney General’s Office) and select “Assistant Attorney General – Criminal Justice Division’s SVP Unit, Seattle.”***
The Bob Keppel Criminal Justice Division of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office has openings in the Seattle office for attorneys interested in prosecuting the civil commitment of sexually violent predators under RCW 71.09.
Sexually violent predators are generally those who are released from prison who meet specific criteria under Washington law, to include a history of sexually violent offense(s) and a mental condition that makes the person likely to commit predatory acts of sexual violence if released to the community. SVP’s are housed at the Special Commitment Center on McNeil Island unless court-approved for restricted release to the community. By identifying and interrupting those offenders most likely to commit new crimes, SVP Prosecutors make a unique and direct impact on community safety.
Responsibilities
We seek attorneys with demonstrated courtroom experience and exceptional legal writing and oral advocacy skills to do this important work. Our attorneys primarily practice in superior court but also handle appellate cases in the Washington State Court of Appeals, Washington State Supreme Court and federal courts on an occasional basis. SVP cases are civil in nature, but some aspects of criminal law come into play. Litigation duties therefore include discovery practice under the civil rules, taking and defending depositions, submitting and responding to interrogatories and requests for production, jury and/or bench trials, and extensive motion practice.
Work in the SVP Unit is demanding but rewarding. The selected candidates will contribute to a collegial and inclusive work environment that includes attorneys, paralegals, and investigators dedicated to safer communities. History has shown that the high-level skills, experiences, and opportunities obtained from serving as an AAG in the Criminal Justice Division result in extremely qualified candidates for future opportunities, both within the AGO and elsewhere.
Qualifications
The positions are open to candidates able to work a hybrid in-office and remote work schedule in the downtown Seattle AGO office, but travel around the state for trial preparation and court hearings/trial is required.
In addition to meeting the qualifications to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, preferred candidates will possess:
- Significant courtroom experience and/or experience clerking in an appellate court or other appellate experience;
- Excellent writing and oral advocacy skills;
- Strong interpersonal skills to work well with others in an inclusive, collegial setting;
- Superior motivation and organizational skills; and
- The ability and desire to develop complex litigation skills.
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The AGO appreciates the benefits of a healthy life-work balance as well as a respectful, inclusive and diverse workplace. Successful candidates will join an Office in which every person is committed to providing exceptional legal services and where individual professional development is encouraged and supported. The exceptional benefits of joining the AGO include:
- A competitive benefit package that includes affordable medical plan options, dental benefits and retirement plans
- Vacation Leave, Sick Leave, Military and Civil Leave and Paid Holidays
- Transparent salary schedule – AAG salaries are set between $82,212 and $153,996. The exact amount is set in accordance with Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA
- The AGO will pay the general bar dues of someone who begins their assignment on or before January 31st per Article 10.8 of the AWAAG CBA
- Flex schedules and telecommuting options
- A formal AAG mentoring program that complements the AGO’s inherently collegial and supportive environment
- Health and wellness program
- Training and career development program that is recognized for its excellence and efficacy by AGOs nationwide
Application Process
All applicants must submit their materials by clicking the application link here or by going to www.careers.wa.gov, filter by department (Attorney General’s Office) and select “Assistant Attorney General – Criminal Justice Division’s SVP Unit, Seattle.”
