Deputy Prosecuting Attorney III

The Kittitas County Prosecutor's Office is currently seeking (1) Civil Deputy Prosecuting Attorney. This is a full-time, exempt, benefit and retirement-eligible position located in Ellensburg, WA. Candidates with limited experience will also be considered.

Responsible and carry out any or all the following duties of Deputy Prosecutor as directed and assigned by the Kittitas County Prosecuting Attorney and/or Division Chief

• Consult on a frequent basis with all attorneys in the office by being available for questions and providing guidance or feedback for other DPAs as appropriate; attend weekly attorney meetings.
• Work on special projects as assigned or as deemed appropriate.
• Read and become familiar with current laws and maintain proficiency with any changes in the law (statutory, admin, and/or caselaw).
• Provide information and expertise as requested by community groups or classes.
• Understand and follow all office polices.
• Work effectively and cooperatively with all office staff.
• Maintain an accurate calendar (using Outlook) with court appearances, scheduled training, and any time out of the office (sick, vacation, meetings).
• Communicate clearly and frequently with Division Chief about performance expectations, goals, and work habits.

Civil Division-specific duties

• Advise all County boards and commissioners on County civil issues.
• Advise all County Elected Officials and their offices regarding County government civil issues.
• Advise all Department Heads and their departments regarding County government civil issues.
• Represent the Prosecutor’s Office at public meetings and executive sessions.
• Review and evaluate County contracts and forms for legality and recommend changes when necessary.
• Prepare and/or evaluate drafts of proposed resolutions and ordinances.
• Research civil and legal issues on behalf of County boards, commissions, and departments.
• Initiate and process appropriate County civil court actions and appeals on behalf of the County in state or federal court and represent the County in all proceedings related to such legal actions.
• Appear and represent the County in civil court actions and appeals brought against the County in state and federal court and represent the County in all proceedings related to such lawsuits.
• Respond to public disclosure requests made to the Prosecutor’s Office and assist boards, commissions, and other departments in the processing of their public disclosure requests.
• May be designated as County Claims Administrator.

• High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school OR successful completion of the Rule 9 program, followed by admission to the Washington State Bar.
• Knowledge of applicable statutes, common law, case law, and procedural rules.
• Valid WSBA number/license.
• 10 or more years of experience as a licensed attorney.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to: Set priorities; work with law enforcement, other criminal justice personnel and clerical personnel; follow the rules of court; maintain professionalism; and provide service to the public on a daily basis.
• Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for the qualifications stated below at the discretion of the Elected Prosecutor.
• Valid Washington State driver’s license.
• A criminal history and background check to include fingerprinting will be performed on qualified candidates. Convictions may preclude candidates from employment in certain circumstances.  Factors such as relativity to the position, age at time of the offense, seriousness and nature of the violation, and rehabilitation will be taken into account.