Public Defense Legal Intern, 10 Week Summer 2025, (Rule 9 Licensed)
King County
Seattle, WA
Full-time
Legal
Posted on October 1, 2024
Salary
$2,646.55 Biweekly
Location
Seattle, WA
Job Type
Intern
Job Number
2024AR22462
Department
DPD - Dept of Public Defense
Opening Date
08/01/2024
Closing Date
10/11/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA
Exempt
Bargaining Unit
Z3 : KC Personnel Guidelines
Full- or Part-Time
Full Time
Hours/Week
40 hours/week
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Department of Public Defense (DPD) is actively recruiting 2nd year law students to participate in a 10-week internship beginning in June 202 5 . This is an excellent opportunity for students considering a career in public defense. Students with a Rule 9 license can appear on the record, under supervision. DPD 's internship program give s students meaningful opportunities to engage directly with clients and to appear in court with the support of experienced public defenders .
DPD represents indigent clients in several practice areas: criminal defense (felonies and misdemeanors), juvenile defense, family defense, involuntary commitment, sex offender commitments, and contempt of court. Students will be offered an internship in a single practice area and should express any preference in their cover letter.
This is a rolling application - internship positions will remain open until filled. Interns are paid $2,646.55 bi-weekly. These positions are subject to approved funding. This is a non-benefit eligible position. We anticipate filling approximately 20 internship positions.
WHY JOIN DPD?
The Department of Public Defense is in the process of implementing the Washington State Bar Association's newly passed caseload standards. These standards, which DPD advocated for, call for public defenders to carry maximum caseloads far below any current standard in large metropolitan public defense agencies in the country. Once implemented, the standards will give attorneys at DPD the time they need to give each of their clients the zealous representation they deserve while ensuring public defense can be a sustainable career.
DPD provides high quality legal representation to indigent clients facing felony or misdemeanor charges in adult or juvenile court, loss of family integrity in dependency and termination cases, and petitions for involuntary commitment because of alleged mental illness or substance abuse. We also advocate to reduce the harm and reach of the criminal legal system and civil legal systems that restrict our clients' liberty and to address systemic racism. We strive to create a flexible workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive, premised on a shared anti-oppression framework. Employment at DPD offers the chance to practice public defense at a very high level while living in a vibrant urban environment surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.
To learn more about DPD, visit our website at: https://kingcounty.gov/depts/public-defense.aspx
Who May Apply
Second year law students in good academic standing at an American Bar Association approved law school may apply. Proof of full-time or part-time enrollment in school is required upon hire and throughout employment on a recurring schedule for the regular school yea r ( e.g. quarterly or on a semester basis).
DPD seeks to hire interns with a wide range of life experiences . We particularly welcome applications from those who have personal experience in navigating the system s in which we work or come from communities most impacted by these systems.
Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. Internships will remain open until filled. All candidates selected for an interview will be interviewed using videoconference
technology.
First consideration will be given to candidates who apply prior to September 1 , 202 4 . Once all positions are filled the posting will be closed .
Work Locations
Positions may be assigned to work at the following locations:
The normal work schedule is Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Specific schedules may be discussed with supervisor.
For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact our Talent Advisors at dpd-hr@kingcounty.gov .
To Apply:
All candidates should submit the following:
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed and screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. Applicants may be required to demonstrate their qualifications at the time of the interview and/or skills assessment. All materials will be evaluated for spelling, grammar, and punctuation usage. The most competitive candidates will be invited to interview.
Please note: Students offered paid internship positions at DPD will be asked to forgo other outside funding opportunities to ensure that all our summer interns are compensated the same amount for the same work.
This position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act, and some night and weekend work is required.
DPD Policies
DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Procedures will apply to applicants, such that if you work or have worked for one of DPD's divisions, you may be ineligible to work in another division.
Outside Work Polic y for Attorneys will apply to applicants, such that you must receive approval from your supervisor and Managing Attorney before being permitted to engage in outside employment for compensation or volunteer.
Union Membership
This position is not represented by a collective bargaining agreement.
Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North" , we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
To Apply
If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions, please contact the recruiter listed on this job announcement.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, this salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. King County offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life and disability insurance for employees and dependents; retirement and deferred compensation. For additional information, please review the detailed summary of benefits offered by King County.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position.Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
$2,646.55 Biweekly
Location
Seattle, WA
Job Type
Intern
Job Number
2024AR22462
Department
DPD - Dept of Public Defense
Opening Date
08/01/2024
Closing Date
10/11/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA
Exempt
Bargaining Unit
Z3 : KC Personnel Guidelines
Full- or Part-Time
Full Time
Hours/Week
40 hours/week
Summary
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Department of Public Defense (DPD) is actively recruiting 2nd year law students to participate in a 10-week internship beginning in June 202 5 . This is an excellent opportunity for students considering a career in public defense. Students with a Rule 9 license can appear on the record, under supervision. DPD 's internship program give s students meaningful opportunities to engage directly with clients and to appear in court with the support of experienced public defenders .
DPD represents indigent clients in several practice areas: criminal defense (felonies and misdemeanors), juvenile defense, family defense, involuntary commitment, sex offender commitments, and contempt of court. Students will be offered an internship in a single practice area and should express any preference in their cover letter.
This is a rolling application - internship positions will remain open until filled. Interns are paid $2,646.55 bi-weekly. These positions are subject to approved funding. This is a non-benefit eligible position. We anticipate filling approximately 20 internship positions.
WHY JOIN DPD?
The Department of Public Defense is in the process of implementing the Washington State Bar Association's newly passed caseload standards. These standards, which DPD advocated for, call for public defenders to carry maximum caseloads far below any current standard in large metropolitan public defense agencies in the country. Once implemented, the standards will give attorneys at DPD the time they need to give each of their clients the zealous representation they deserve while ensuring public defense can be a sustainable career.
DPD provides high quality legal representation to indigent clients facing felony or misdemeanor charges in adult or juvenile court, loss of family integrity in dependency and termination cases, and petitions for involuntary commitment because of alleged mental illness or substance abuse. We also advocate to reduce the harm and reach of the criminal legal system and civil legal systems that restrict our clients' liberty and to address systemic racism. We strive to create a flexible workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive, premised on a shared anti-oppression framework. Employment at DPD offers the chance to practice public defense at a very high level while living in a vibrant urban environment surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.
To learn more about DPD, visit our website at: https://kingcounty.gov/depts/public-defense.aspx
Job Duties
- Assist attorneys and appear on the record at: arraignment hearings; pretrial hearings; motion hearings; sentencing and probation review; or, if placed in civil practice areas, other hearings relevant to that practice (shelter care, review hearings, etc.).
- Assist with trial preparations (DPD makes an effort to provide but cannot guarantee trial experience).
- Communication with clients as well as social workers, service providers, and other individuals involved in a client's case.
- Other duties as requested .
Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
- By June 202 5 the student will have completed two years of law school and be enrolled and in good academic standing at an American Bar Association approved law school.
- Able to qualify as a Rule 9 Licensed Legal Intern, under the WSBA rule.
- A demonstrated interest in representing indigent persons.
- Possess good moral character and fitness to practice law (APPs 20-24).
- Effective writing and communication skills.
- Organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Initiative and accountability for work product or service.
- Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Knowledge of the operation of standard office equipment that may include p e rsonal computers, copiers, and fax machines.
- Ability to multitask and self-direct in a fast-paced environment.
- Multilingual skills are a plus.
- Completed at least one of the following courses: evidence, criminal procedure, and a clinical or trial advocacy course.
Supplemental Information
Who May Apply
Second year law students in good academic standing at an American Bar Association approved law school may apply. Proof of full-time or part-time enrollment in school is required upon hire and throughout employment on a recurring schedule for the regular school yea r ( e.g. quarterly or on a semester basis).
DPD seeks to hire interns with a wide range of life experiences . We particularly welcome applications from those who have personal experience in navigating the system s in which we work or come from communities most impacted by these systems.
Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis. Internships will remain open until filled. All candidates selected for an interview will be interviewed using videoconference
technology.
First consideration will be given to candidates who apply prior to September 1 , 202 4 . Once all positions are filled the posting will be closed .
Work Locations
Positions may be assigned to work at the following locations:
- 710 Second Avenue, Seattle;
- 1401 E. Jefferson, Seattle; or
- 420 West Harrison Street, Kent.
The normal work schedule is Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Specific schedules may be discussed with supervisor.
For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact our Talent Advisors at dpd-hr@kingcounty.gov .
To Apply:
All candidates should submit the following:
- An online employment application completed at www.kingcounty.gov/jobs. The employment history should go back long enough to include all relevant experience.
- A cover letter no more than two pages summarizing your experience and how you meet the required qualifications, knowledge, and skills for the position.
- A resume.
- Unofficial Transcript.
- A three-page self-authored writing sample.
- At least three references.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed and screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. Applicants may be required to demonstrate their qualifications at the time of the interview and/or skills assessment. All materials will be evaluated for spelling, grammar, and punctuation usage. The most competitive candidates will be invited to interview.
Please note: Students offered paid internship positions at DPD will be asked to forgo other outside funding opportunities to ensure that all our summer interns are compensated the same amount for the same work.
This position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act, and some night and weekend work is required.
DPD Policies
DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Procedures will apply to applicants, such that if you work or have worked for one of DPD's divisions, you may be ineligible to work in another division.
Outside Work Polic y for Attorneys will apply to applicants, such that you must receive approval from your supervisor and Managing Attorney before being permitted to engage in outside employment for compensation or volunteer.
Union Membership
This position is not represented by a collective bargaining agreement.
Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play.
Guided by our "True North" , we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles--we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans.
King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.
To Apply
If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process or if you have questions, please contact the recruiter listed on this job announcement.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
In accordance with RCW 49.58.110, this salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. King County offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life and disability insurance for employees and dependents; retirement and deferred compensation. For additional information, please review the detailed summary of benefits offered by King County.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage: King County pays 100% of the premiums for eligible employees and family members
- Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
- Retirement: King County employees are eligible to participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
- Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
- 12paid holidays each year plus twopersonal holidays
- Generous vacation and paid sick leave
- Paid parental,family and medical, and volunteer leaves
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness programs
- Onsite activity centers
- Employee Giving Program
- Employee assistance programs
- Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
- Training and career development programs
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position.Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
