Dep Prosecuting Attorney

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney (Entry Level)

Salary
: $6,825 – $13,188 monthly.

Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office seeks an entry‑level Deputy Prosecuting Attorney to support the office’s mission of pursuing justice, protecting the community, and serving victims.

• Review and evaluate evidence in criminal referrals; determine if charges should be initiated; manage case prosecution, including research, motion advocacy, plea negotiations, change of plea hearings, trials, and sentencing hearings.
• Provide legal advice to law enforcement regarding investigations, search warrants, subpoenas, and other investigatory orders; respond to crime scenes as needed.
• Prepare charged cases for trial: interview witnesses, examine physical evidence, develop trial strategy, file motions, prepare trial memoranda, exhibits, and other presentation materials.
• Conduct trial work including evidence presentation and overall trial advocacy for Thurston County or the State of Washington.
• Assist with appeals by researching, briefing, and presenting arguments in appellate courts.
• Provide training presentations to attorneys, staff, law enforcement, or other legal organizations.
• Supervise other attorneys or legal support staff (as assigned).

• Graduated from a recognized, accredited law school and in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association.
• Knowledge of Washington state law, county, state, and federal courts, administrative agencies, and basic litigation and trial techniques.
• Ability to perform legal research and apply statutes, rules, and precedents to facts; produce clear written and oral arguments.

• Confidence and professionalism in courtroom presentation and oral advocacy.
• Experience in witness examination, motion argument, and bench/jury trials.
• Skill in plea negotiations, case preparation, and evidence presentation.
• Commitment to ethical prosecution and pursuit of justice over convictions.
• Sound discretion, fairness, transparency in decision‑making.
• Respect for victims, defendants, and the broader community.
• Clear, professional, and respectful communication.
• Ability to work effectively with law enforcement, defense counsel, victims, court personnel, and colleagues.
• Professional demeanor under pressure and high‑stakes environments.
• Empathy and sensitivity to victims and witnesses.
• Manage large caseload accurately and efficiently.
• Strong attention to detail, prioritize multiple deadlines.
• Self‑motivated, organized, responsive in fast‑paced team settings.
• Dedication to justice, public safety, and fair administration of law.
• Awareness of diverse communities served and cultural sensitivity.
• Interested in ongoing professional growth, training, and community engagement.
• Proficiency with case‑management and digital evidence systems.
• Competence with Microsoft Office, legal research tools, and electronic filing.

• Indoor work; keyboarding, standing/sitting for long periods, occasional heavy lifting up to 20 lb.; traveling between courtrooms; reaching for objects.
• Monday‑Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. with potential outside hours; essential personnel during emergencies.
• Occasional travel for meetings, trainings, court, or off‑site locations.
• Possible interactions with hostile or irate individuals; individuals with violent histories.

• Work‑life balance and flexible scheduling options.
• Retirement plan, pre‑tax savings, comprehensive health, dental, vision care for employees and families.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Robust training program and support for professional development.
• Deferred compensation plans.
• Flexible spending account for health care and daycare expenses.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

• Eligible for benefits; not eligible for overtime under FLSA; contingent on passing a background investigation.
• Applicants must submit an application, letter of interest, resume, reference list, and supplemental questionnaire (Applicant Disclosure Form per RCW Section 43.43.83).
• Please contact Christen Peters at 360‑786‑5540 x6250 with questions.

Thurston County is an equal‑opportunity employer and provides equal opportunity to all persons seeking employment. The employment program is free from restriction based on race, sex, marital status, color, creed or religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, pregnancy, veteran or military status, genetic information, or disability, unless based on bona fide occupational qualifications. Applicants with disabilities who need accommodation should contact Thurston County Human Resources at (360) 786‑5498.

Entry level

Full‑time

Legal