Description:

The Attorney General's Office's Torts Division (https://www.atg.wa.gov/torts) has an Assistant Attorney General position open in our downtown Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia or Spokane offices depending on the needs and interest of the person hired to fill this role. If you are interested in a dynamic litigation practice, working on cutting-edge legal issues and taking on increasingly challenging cases, Torts may be the place for you!

The Torts Division defends tort claims and lawsuits against all state agencies, officers and employees. The majority of cases are based on actions brought under theories of liability for state actions such as highway design, release of inmates, injuries on state property, medical malpractice, employment, child care and custody, auto accidents, and maritime injuries. Torts attorneys also provide legal and risk management advice to the Office of Financial Management and state agencies on tort matters.

Duties:
This position is one of three assigned attorney positions for the DCYF Team (2 AAGs and 1 MAAG). Because DCYF cases make up a large percentage of the caseload this team is in place to offer assistance and support on legal issues that arise, in addition to handling their own smaller caseload. The subject matter of the cases, typically abuse and neglect of vulnerable children, is some of the most difficult our lawyers experience.

The work of the Torts Division is demanding, stimulating and rewarding; lawyers who enjoy working on cutting-edge legal issues thrive here. The challenges of this fast-paced, diverse work are more than offset by the collegial team environment, the dedicated professional support staff and other litigation resources provided by the Torts Division.

In addition to extensive litigation resources, the Torts Division provides progressive training by seasoned professionals that allows attorneys to assume responsibility for increasingly complex and difficult cases. Most of the work will be centered in Northwest Washington, but some of it may require travel throughout the state.

Qualifications:
If you have strong analytical, advocacy and problem-solving skills, enjoy a collegial team environment, and believe that communication and respect are pivotal to success in any endeavor, you have the attributes we are looking for.

A strong foundation (at least 5 years) of litigation expertise is essential for this position. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience evaluating and resolving cases through direct negotiation and mediation, outstanding oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

In addition to meeting the requirements to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, the following experience also is desirable:

Interviewing witnesses and conducting depositions;
Interacting with high level client representatives;
Working with insurance tenders of defense;
Conducting trials in superior or federal court;
Drafting briefs;
Working with expert witnesses; and
Working with people who have a diverse background, experience and communication style.

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.