Public Defense Attorney I/II
Benton County, Washington, seeks qualified attorneys to fill multiple and ongoing positions in the Office of Public Defense (OPD). Qualified candidates will represent indigent individuals who are subject to criminal proceedings commenced in the Benton County District Court, Benton County Superior Court, Benton County Juvenile Division, as well as participate alongside senior attorneys in felony cases in the Benton County Superior Court.
Preferred Qualifications:
On-the-job training and mentorship will be a part of every candidate's experience with our office, however competitive candidates will have the following:
- Criminal law experience in either courtroom or legal clinic settings;
- Good aptitude for dealing with multiple clients;
- An interest to appear in court fully prepared, with an ability to think quickly and manage solutions to cases;
- An interest to seek trial experience, work with mentoring attorneys, and develop as a trial advocate;
- Working knowledge of collateral consequences of criminal conviction in District Court, Superior Court, Juvenile Court.
Form of Application:
Please send a letter of interest; resume; three professional references; proof of admission to the Washington State Bar Association or pending application to the Washington State Bar and any other states where the applicant has previously been admitted; and disclosure of any complaint that resulted in disciplinary action by the entity charged with the discipline of attorneys in any state or jurisdiction.
Address for Response:
Send responses marked "BENTON COUNTY OPD - PDA I/II" to:
Attn: Charlie Dow
Office of Public Defense
7122 W. Okanogan Place, Bldg. A
Kennewick, WA 99336
C.dow@co.benton.wa.us
Closing Date:
There is immediate need to fill multiple positions. This post will be open on a continuous basis, with interviews scheduled as soon as qualified applications are received. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Compensation:
Annual Pay Range
PDA I: $79,356 - $102,972
PDA II: $91,860 - $119,220
Hiring Range
PDA I: $79,356 - $83,772 (NB-19, Step A - C)
PDA II: $91,860 - $96,972 (NB-22, Step A - C)
Each position comes with potential for promotion to higher salary ranges within the first year to well performing employees. Benefits include:
- Local area gym membership discounts,
- Various wireless plan discounts,
- Government discounts on select Apple products,
- Free license on Microsoft Office through the Home Use Program.
Additionally, Benton County is prepared to offer up to $5,000 in relocation assistance for costs to relocate to the Kennewick area. Benton County OPD is interested in investing significant time, training, and experience opportunities towards candidates who are prepared to commit to at least two years with the Office.
As employees of Benton County, all selected attorneys would be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness credit months. Additionally, all selected attorneys would be eligible for the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) provided by the State of Washington.
Must be a member of the Washington State Bar Association in good standing. Candidates who have passed the bar exam and are awaiting Washington State licensure are strongly encouraged to apply.
