THE KITTITAS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC DEFENSE

Passionate advocacy! The Kittitas County Department of Public Defense provides effective legal representation to people who are facing loss of liberty under criminal laws and are unable to afford an attorney. We are a small but mighty office representing adults and juveniles with respect and compassion as they navigate the legal system, pursuing justice on their behalf through ethical, client-centered practices. Because we are a small office there are opportunities to become involved in all aspects of the criminal justice system with the goal to learn and grow as attorneys in the criminal justice field. We are a dedicated, supportive group who work together to make a difference in our community.

KITTITAS COUNTY

Situated in central Washington between the foothills of the stunning Cascade Mountains and the mighty Columbia River, Kittitas County residents enjoy limitless activities and recreation opportunities year-round. With over 200 days of sunshine each year, residents and visitors can enjoy activities including hiking, camping, numerous golf courses, fishing and boating, horseback riding, cross country skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, climbing, and backpacking. Residents here enjoy the small-town feel with easy access to Seattle, just a two hour drive from Ellensburg, the largest city in Kittitas County. Ellensburg is well known for its friendly residents and rural life-style, along with summer music festivals, seasonal Farmer's Market, and the annual Kittitas County Fair and Ellensburg Rodeo.

THIS POSITION

This position is responsible for defending indigent individuals charged with a crime or other conduct that could result in loss of liberty. Duties include interviewing clients, reviewing police reports, evaluating each case for strengths and weaknesses, conducting trial actions, and representing the client at legal proceedings. This position may also assist in the creation or updates of procedures, tasks, workflows, and systems as assigned.

The ideal candidate must possess a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school OR successful completion of the Rule 9 program, followed by admission to the WA State Bar.

BENEFITS

Kittitas County provides base medical, dental, and vision insurance covered in full for employees and their eligible family members. Leave benefits include 11 paid legal holidays, vacation and sick leave, bereavement leave, FMLA, Washington State Paid Family & Medical Leave, and more. Student loan forgiveness is available under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Retirement benefits are provided through the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS).

HOW TO APPLY

To learn more about the position and submit an application, please visit https://www.co.kittitas.wa.us/hr/jobs/job.aspx?i=1908