Assistant Attorney General - Spokane Division's Torts Section

Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the recruitment team at HREmployment@atg.wa.gov. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

Join the Torts Division - Defending Those Who Serve the People of Washington Everyday

Do you want the opportunity to try civil cases to juries?

Do you want a diverse trial and appellate practice in state and federal court? Do you want to practice on the cutting edge of torts law in Washington?

If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, and you are interested in joining a collaborative team of dedicated attorneys, paralegals, and investigators, then you should apply to the Torts Division today!

The Torts Section in the WA State Attorney General Office's Christine O. Gregoire Spokane Division has immediate openings for Assistant Attorney General positions.

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The positions advertised are based in Spokane, Washington. Spokane is a vibrant and beautiful city that enjoys four distinct seasons and provides residents and visitors with world class outdoor adventures, including: fishing and whitewater rafting in the Spokane River; biking the Centennial Trail; snow skiing at nearby Mt. Spokane, Lookout Pass, Silver Mountain, 49 Degrees North, or Schweitzer Mountain; and hiking, boating or fishing in a host of nearby lakes and nature preserves. Spokane also offers great indoor activities: theater, including Broadway shows; live music; multiple exhibits; and the opportunity to taste Washington's renowned grapes and hops at a number of local wineries and craft breweries.

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The Torts Division, the largest division in the Washington Attorney General’s Office, seeks trial attorneys eager to practice in state and federal courts throughout Washington. The Torts Division represents the State agencies and State employees who do the hard work of serving the citizens of Washington when they are sued for damages. Attorneys in the Torts Division, with support from professional staff, including paralegals and investigators, handle cases from inception through resolution, involving diverse clients and theories of liability, with continuous support, training, and development. If you are interested in growing and developing as an oral and written advocate, working on challenging issues and cases, and belonging to a dedicated and supportive team, then the Torts Division is the place for you.

The Torts Division has offices in Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia (Tumwater), and Spokane. The Torts Division also provides opportunities for telework in a hybrid work environment.

More Information About the Attorney General’s Office

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.

Benefit and Compensation Details

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:

• Competitive salary, which may be negotiable within the given salary range ($82,212 - $153,996). Salaries are set in accordance with Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA
• Longevity pay of 5% premium on top of base wages after 5 years with the Attorney General’s Office.
• A competitive benefit package that includes:
  • Affordable medical plan options, including vision benefits,
  • Dental benefits covered 100%
  • Retirement plan (employee/employer contribution)
  • Deferred Compensation Plan
• 11 paid holidays and 1 personal holiday
• 8 hours sick leave accrual per month
• 9.33 hours to start, then up to 16.67 hours of annual leave accrual per month (based on years of state service)
• Flex schedules and telecommuting options
• 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
• Qualifying Employer for Public Loan Forgiveness Program
• 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 provides CLE credits and is recognized for its excellence and efficacy by AGOs nationwide

Assistant Attorneys General Salary Schedule: This position is seeking attorneys with at least five years of legal experience as noted in the qualifications below.

Base Range Step Numbers	Graduation Year	AAG Range	Managing AAG 1 Range	Managing AAG 2 Range	Deputy Solicitor General Range
Step 2	2025	82,212	86,328	90,444	90,444
Step3	2024	85,500	89,784	94,056	94,056
Step4	2023	88,932	93,372	97,836	97,836
Step5	2022	92,472	97,116	101,736	101,736
Step6	2021	96,192	100,992	105,816	105,816
Step7	2020	100,032	105,036	110,028	110,028
Step8	2019	104,016	109,236	114,444	114,444
Step9	2018	108,204	113,604	119,016	119,016
Step10	2017	112,524	118,152	123,768	123,768
Step11	2016	117,024	122,868	128,712	128,712
Step12	2015	121,704	127,788	133,860	133,860
Step13	2014	126,564	132,912	139,236	139,236
Step14	2013	131,640	138,240	144,780	144,780
Step15	2012	136,896	143,748	150,600	150,600
Step16	2011	142,368	149,496	156,612	156,612
Step17	2010	148,068	155,472	162,876	162,876
Step 18	2009	153,996	161,700	169,392	169,392

Duties

The Torts Division defends tort claims and lawsuits against all state agencies, officers, and employees arising from acts or omissions while performing, or in good faith purporting to perform, official duties. Torts attorneys also provide legal and risk management advice to the Office of Financial Management and state agencies on tort matters. The caseload for a Torts attorney typically includes a variety of cases involving different agencies and diverse theories of liability, including, for example, alleged failures to protect a child from abuse or neglect by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, alleged failures to supervise individuals released from incarceration by the Department of Corrections, alleged negligent road design or maintenance by the Department of Transportation, and false arrest or excessive use of force by the Washington State Patrol. Torts attorneys handle many other types of cases, as well, including premises liability, medical negligence, employment discrimination and retaliation, motor vehicle accidents, and maritime injuries on Washington State ferries. With hundreds of departments, agencies, boards, and commissions, and ever-developing theories of tort liability, there is always something new for the attorneys in the Torts Division!

Attorneys in the Torts Division are responsible for maintaining and applying a comprehensive knowledge of procedural and substantive law, for working productively with client agencies, for developing and executing legal strategy, for engaging in all aspects of affirmative and defensive discovery, for timely and effective communication of case developments, for leading their trial team of professional staff, for conducting jury and bench trials, and for handling appeals. The work of the Torts Division is demanding, stimulating, and rewarding, and attorneys who enjoy working on leading-edge legal issues involving State liability thrive here. While their work is challenging, fast-paced, and diverse, Torts attorneys appreciate the balance afforded by a collegial team environment, dedicated professional support staff, and other litigation resources provided by the Torts Division and the AGO.

If you have strong analytical, advocacy, and problem-solving skills, enjoy working with other professionals, have a good sense of humor, and believe that communication and respect are critical to success in any endeavor, then you have the attributes that the Torts Divisions values in its attorneys.

Salary

• $82,212 - $153,996/year

Qualifications

In addition to meeting the qualifications to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, qualified applicants will offer the following:

• At least five years of experience practicing as a licensed attorney;
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills;
• Good problem-solving skills;
• Excellent legal judgment; and
• The interest and ability to work well in a collaborative team environment with litigation support and investigative staff, client agencies and risk managers, the Office of Risk Management, and other attorneys in the Torts Division and the AGO.

Ideal candidates will also offer experience in the following areas:

• Five or more years of progressive legal experience, including a strong foundation in civil litigation;
• Taking and defending depositions;
• Handling an active, civil motions practice;
• Working with expert witnesses;
• Engaging in alternative dispute resolution;
• Trying cases in state and/or federal court;
• Briefing and arguing cases on appeal;
• Interacting with high-level client representatives; and
• Working with people with diverse backgrounds, experience, and communication styles.

Torts litigation experience, while advantageous, is not essential. Relevant subject matter experience is preferred but not required.

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.

Other Information

These Assistant Attorney General positions are 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 $82,212 and $153,996. 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
• A writing sample (10 pages or less).

If you have questions about these positions or wish to learn more about them before applying, we encourage and welcome you to contact Spokane Torts Section Chief David Force at david.force@atg.wa.gov

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The Washington State Office of the Attorney General does not use the E-Verify system; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

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 age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability 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 HREmployment@atg.wa.gov. Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 orwww.washingtonrelay.com.

Benefits

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 auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 07-21-2025