Deputy Public Defender III - $20,000 Hiring Bonus

Salary : $104,705.28 - $124,461.84 Annually
Location : Mason County, WA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202500008
Department: Public Defense
Opening Date: 03/06/2025
Closing Date: 4/7/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: PD

Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks, which may be found in positions of this class.

Please review the full position description for additional information.
Description
A Deputy Public Defender III practices in Superior Court, Juvenile Court, or District Court, and plans, organizes, and coordinates the representation and defense of indigent clients in criminal cases for the County. Prepares and tries felony cases and defends or assists in the defense of complex or highly visible cases.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES:

The Defense Attorney III is distinguished from the lower level Deputy Public Defender classifications by years of experience and the ability to handle a full felony caseload. Assists other attorneys in matters of trial strategy, tactics, and legal research and analysis. Regularly exercises discretion and independent judgment in decision-making.

Essential Functions

• Manages a full felony caseload (A, B, C felonies).
• Prepares cases for trial, pre-trial, and post-trial hearings and/or plea bargains with the Deputy Prosecuting Attorney.
• Assigned homicide cases, persistent offender (e.g. two and three strike) cases, and other serious cases.
• Assists other attorneys in matters of trial strategy, tactics, and legal research and analysis.
• Handles miscellaneous court hearings, including, but not limited to: preliminary appearance calendars, arraignment calendars, non-compliance calendars, ability to substitute in Drug Court hearings, Juvenile Court, and District Court when necessary.
• Maintains membership in good standing in the Washington State Bar Association and complies with all relevant standards for representing indigent defendants in accordance with the Washington State Supreme Court and Mason County.
• Reviews police reports, interviews witnesses, and works with the court and deputy prosecutors to resolve cases as appropriate.
• Performs a variety of legal office work, prepares appropriate legal pleadings, and does necessary research.
• Maintains accurate and complete statistical information to be used for future needs and projections.
• Appropriately utilizes non-attorney professional services.
• Assists other Deputy Public Defenders in matters of tactics, trial strategy, and legal research.
• Provides back-up public defense for District and Juvenile Courts and is knowledgeable of District and Juvenile Court rules and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned by Chief Public Defender.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is performed primarily in an office or courtroom environment. Lifting and carrying files, materials, and boxes weighing up to 10 lbs is required. Incumbents may be required to work long hours, non-standard work weeks, weekends, and holidays.
Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an ABA accredited school of law and must be a member in good standing of the Washington State Bar Association.
• Knowledge of criminal law and judicial procedure of Washington State, techniques of interviewing, and preparation and defense of all variety of criminal cases, with emphasis on felonies.
• Ability to perform legal research; analyze and apply legal principles, facts, evidence, and precedents to legal problems.
• Present law, facts, evidence, and arguments clearly and logically in written and oral form.
• Work harmoniously and maintain good public relations.
• Certification under the Washington State Indigent Defense Standards to handle "B" and "C" felonies and a willingness to train to handle class "A" felonies as quickly as possible. Preference shall be given to attorneys already able to handle class "A" felonies.

Discover the Benefits of Joining Mason County!

At Mason County, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your health, financial security, and professional growth.

Health Insurance Enjoy medical, dental, and vision coverage for yourself and eligible dependents as a regular full-time employee. Some part-time employees may also qualify. We offer affordable plans, with premiums partially covered based on the type of coverage you choose.

Retirement Plans Secure your future with enrollment in one of Washington State's Department of Retirement Systems programs: PERS, PSERS, or LEOFF. Both you and the County contribute to your retirement, ensuring long-term financial stability.

Paid Leave Take time to recharge! Mason County provides sick leave, holidays, and vacation time based on County policies or union agreements. Plus, your vacation accrual grows the longer you stay with us.

Life & AD&D Insurance We've got you covered with County-paid basic life and AD&D insurance for added peace of mind.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Access 24/7 support for yourself, your spouse, domestic partner, and children (up to age 26). Whether it's personal or work-related challenges, the EAP is here to help improve your well-being.

Educational Assistance Advance your career with County-supported education! Full-time employees may be reimbursed for approved courses relevant to their role.

Longevity Rewards We recognize and reward your dedication with additional monthly compensation for continuous service milestones.

Thriving Work Environment We maintain a drug-free, smoke-free workplace that fosters professionalism and respect.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion Mason County is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and upholds fair employment practices.

Accommodations for All Applicants If you need accommodations during the selection process, we're here to help! Contact our Human Resources Department at (360) 427-9670 Ext. 290.

Join Mason County and build a rewarding career in a supportive and inclusive environment. Apply today to become part of our dedicated team!
01

Are you a member in good standing of the Washington State Bar Association?

• Yes
• No

02

Are you certified under the Washington State Indigent Defense Standards to handle "B" and "C" felonies?

• Yes
• No

Required Question