Back to Search
Salary: $74,520.00 - $139,572.00 Annually
Location : Whatcom County - Bellingham, WA
Job Type: Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2024-02292
Department: Attorney General's Office
Opening Date: 05/21/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HRE[redacted]. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at [redacted] 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 supremely talented legal professionals who are resolute in their commitment to public service and share the common goal of advancing the public interest. For more information about the AGO, we encourage you to review the Office's Annual Report which can be found HERE and view THIS VIDEO
Benefits
The Office 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:
Bellingham, Washington is located between the bay and mountains halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. Bellingham is home to Western Washington University, the third largest state university. Bellingham has a lively local arts community, and many features of a large city without the traffic or crowds. Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will find opportunities year rounds, including snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, kayaking and hiking.
Duties
This attorney will work in a fast-paced litigation practice entailing frequent state court docket and trial appearances. The Bellingham location consists of 12 attorneys and 10 professional staff working in a variety of legal practice areas representing various state agencies and higher education institutions in Skagit, Whatcom, Island and San Juan Counties. Client agencies served by this division in this location include Department of Children Youth and Families, Department of Social and Health Services, Department of Labor and Industries, Department of Licensing, Employment Security Department, Skagit Valley College, Whatcom Community College and Bellingham Technical College, Educational Service District 189.
The attorney in this position will carry a DCYF caseload. This will include representation of DCYF in child welfare cases to protect abused and neglected children in dependency, guardianship, and termination of parental rights cases. The subject matter can be difficult, but the work is remarkably rewarding. These cases directly influence the lives of children in our state, in a very meaningful way. The position will also likely include representation of DCYF in childcare, foster care, and group care licensing cases. These cases involve advising the client regarding regulatory enforcement matters, representing the agency in contested matters before the Office of Administrative Hearings, and related Superior Court judicial review proceedings under the Washington Administrative Procedures Act. The position will involve regular regional travel within Washington State.
For representation of the Department of Children Youth and Families, the assigned AAG can expect to:
In addition to meeting the requirements to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, specific qualifications for this position include the ability to quickly adapt to a practice that involves assignment of 50 or more cases at a time, and the ability to shift from one type of work to another during a given week or day.
The ability to communicate with a variety of client agency representatives efficiently and effectively, as well as with attorney and non-attorney colleagues within the office, is critical to success in the position. The position offers an opportunity to quickly develop significant opportunities to exercise independent judgment within the context of a large law office striving to provide consistent representation to client agencies in locations throughout the state.
Demonstrated ability to independently manage time, to identify and prioritize tasks necessary to complete, and to maintain a well-organized practice under significant case load demands are essential.
Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and; be licensed to practice law in Washington State. (Applicants who meet the other stated qualifications and are actively pursuing admission will also be considered.) The AGO seeks applicants who are committed to public service as demonstrated by an applicant's background, talents, attitude, and enthusiasm for public law practice. The AGO greatly encourages, celebrates and values diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfill its mission of providing excellent, independent and ethical legal services to the State of Washington and protecting the rights of its people.
Supplemental Information
This Assistant Attorney General position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. AAG salaries are set between $74,520 and $139,572. The exact amount is set in accordance with Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package is also offered which includes a choice of medical/dental insurance plans, retirement, life and basic long-term disability insurance. In addition, there are non-financial benefits that include working in a collaborative and supportive work environment where professional development and work-life balance are highly valued. The health, safety and professional satisfaction of all AGO staff and volunteers is critical to fulfilling the mission of the AGO to provide exceptional legal services. Complementing and fostering this goal is a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, as evidenced in the AGO's environmental policies
Interested Applicants Must Apply By Hitting The "apply" Button Above. In Addition To The On-line Application, One Must Upload, Via The System And Preferably As PDFs
Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an agency, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees and volunteers enjoy a respectful, safe and supportive working environment. Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures and attributes, can AGO employees and volunteers achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the AGO.
The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, retaliation or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HRE[redacted]. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at [redacted] or www.washingtonrelay.com.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for aut
Location : Whatcom County - Bellingham, WA
Job Type: Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2024-02292
Department: Attorney General's Office
Opening Date: 05/21/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HRE[redacted]. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at [redacted] 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 supremely talented legal professionals who are resolute in their commitment to public service and share the common goal of advancing the public interest. For more information about the AGO, we encourage you to review the Office's Annual Report which can be found HERE and view THIS VIDEO
Benefits
The Office 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 $74,520 and $139,572. 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
Bellingham, Washington is located between the bay and mountains halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. Bellingham is home to Western Washington University, the third largest state university. Bellingham has a lively local arts community, and many features of a large city without the traffic or crowds. Outdoor recreation enthusiasts will find opportunities year rounds, including snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, kayaking and hiking.
Duties
This attorney will work in a fast-paced litigation practice entailing frequent state court docket and trial appearances. The Bellingham location consists of 12 attorneys and 10 professional staff working in a variety of legal practice areas representing various state agencies and higher education institutions in Skagit, Whatcom, Island and San Juan Counties. Client agencies served by this division in this location include Department of Children Youth and Families, Department of Social and Health Services, Department of Labor and Industries, Department of Licensing, Employment Security Department, Skagit Valley College, Whatcom Community College and Bellingham Technical College, Educational Service District 189.
The attorney in this position will carry a DCYF caseload. This will include representation of DCYF in child welfare cases to protect abused and neglected children in dependency, guardianship, and termination of parental rights cases. The subject matter can be difficult, but the work is remarkably rewarding. These cases directly influence the lives of children in our state, in a very meaningful way. The position will also likely include representation of DCYF in childcare, foster care, and group care licensing cases. These cases involve advising the client regarding regulatory enforcement matters, representing the agency in contested matters before the Office of Administrative Hearings, and related Superior Court judicial review proceedings under the Washington Administrative Procedures Act. The position will involve regular regional travel within Washington State.
For representation of the Department of Children Youth and Families, the assigned AAG can expect to:
- Evaluate evidence to determine legal sufficiency to support court intervention;
- Review relevant petitions and other documents;
- Apply the Indian Child Welfare Act and the Washington Indian Child Welfare Act to the juvenile cases;
- Consult with social workers and other agency employees;
- Submit and respond to discovery;
- Prepare witnesses and evidence for hearing or trial;
- Review reports submitted to the court;
- Perform research and analysis;
- Submit relevant briefing to the court;
- Communicate frequently with other attorneys and guardians ad litem to resolve issues related to underlying cases;
- Consider settlement options;
- Handle assigned matters at the state court appellate level; and
- Take all other actions related to these matters.
In addition to meeting the requirements to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, specific qualifications for this position include the ability to quickly adapt to a practice that involves assignment of 50 or more cases at a time, and the ability to shift from one type of work to another during a given week or day.
The ability to communicate with a variety of client agency representatives efficiently and effectively, as well as with attorney and non-attorney colleagues within the office, is critical to success in the position. The position offers an opportunity to quickly develop significant opportunities to exercise independent judgment within the context of a large law office striving to provide consistent representation to client agencies in locations throughout the state.
Demonstrated ability to independently manage time, to identify and prioritize tasks necessary to complete, and to maintain a well-organized practice under significant case load demands are essential.
Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and; be licensed to practice law in Washington State. (Applicants who meet the other stated qualifications and are actively pursuing admission will also be considered.) The AGO seeks applicants who are committed to public service as demonstrated by an applicant's background, talents, attitude, and enthusiasm for public law practice. The AGO greatly encourages, celebrates and values diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfill its mission of providing excellent, independent and ethical legal services to the State of Washington and protecting the rights of its people.
Supplemental Information
This Assistant Attorney General position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. AAG salaries are set between $74,520 and $139,572. The exact amount is set in accordance with Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package is also offered which includes a choice of medical/dental insurance plans, retirement, life and basic long-term disability insurance. In addition, there are non-financial benefits that include working in a collaborative and supportive work environment where professional development and work-life balance are highly valued. The health, safety and professional satisfaction of all AGO staff and volunteers is critical to fulfilling the mission of the AGO to provide exceptional legal services. Complementing and fostering this goal is a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, as evidenced in the AGO's environmental policies
Interested Applicants Must Apply By Hitting The "apply" Button Above. In Addition To The On-line Application, One Must Upload, Via The System And Preferably As PDFs
- A letter of interest;
- Resume;
- Law school transcript (unofficial copy is acceptable); and
- Writing sample.
Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an agency, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees and volunteers enjoy a respectful, safe and supportive working environment. Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures and attributes, can AGO employees and volunteers achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the AGO.
The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, retaliation or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HRE[redacted]. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at [redacted] or www.washingtonrelay.com.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read About Our Benefits
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for aut
