What are the responsibilities and job description for the Deputy I or II - Public Defender position at Whatcom County, WA?

Salary : $84,120.00 - $137,244.00 Annually

Location : Bellingham, WA 98225

Job Type : Full-Time

Job Number : D165 1124

Department : Public Defender's Office

Opening Date : 01 / 06 / 2025

Closing Date : 1 / 26 / 2025 11 : 59 PM Pacific

Salary : DOQ (2025 wages listed)

Summary

Whatcom County Public Defender's office in Bellingham, WA is seeking a Deputy I or II depending on qualifications.

Primary Duties :

Acts as court-appointed counsel representing individuals accused of misdemeanors or felonies in superior, district and juvenile courts.
Represents appointed clients in all phases of criminal proceedings, including arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation, plea negotiations, trial and sentencing.
Responsible for the investigation and preparation of each case assigned.
Primary caseload consists of misdemeanors. Juvenile, or felony cases may be assigned based upon experience.
Assists management and other staff, as directed. Complies with legal standards and requirements.
Complies with legal standards and requirements.

For the full scope of the job view the job description :

Deputy I - PD

Supervisor : Chief Deputy

Hours of Work : Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM

Salary Range : AFSCME- Range 9 or 11 DOQ (2025 wages listed)

Hiring rate depends on qualifications. This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any negotiated Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).

Qualifications

Deputy I :

Must be a current member in good standing of the Washington State Bar Association, OR must be a current member in good standing of another State Bar Association AND must become a member of the Washington State Bar Association by passing the next Washington State Bar exam.

Spanish language fluency is desired.

Background Check must meet County Criteria for criminal justice positions.

Must have a driving record that meets County standards and possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and throughout employment.

Deputy II :

Successful completion of two years as a Whatcom County Deputy I in the Whatcom County Public Defender's Office and performance-based approval of promotion by the Public Defender, OR

Three years of experience as a public defender, prosecuting attorney, or private criminal defense counsel and qualified under the Standards of Indigent Defense to handle felony cases.

Spanish language fluency is desired.

Background Check must meet County Criteria for criminal justice positions.

Must have a driving record that meets County standards and possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and throughout employment.

At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Distinguish yourself in public service and make a commitment to our future.

is truly special and a great place to call !

Whatcom County offers excellent benefits to employees, including :

Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees AND their family

Generous paid leave provisions, including vacation, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays per year

Eligibilty for a lifetime pension through the Washington State Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), with joint contributions required from the employee and the County

50,000 Life Insurance coverage for employees

Option to invest in a 457 Deferred Compensation Retirement Plan

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) available for annual health care and / or dependent care expenses

Voluntary Term Life Insurance and Personal Accident Insurance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Additional

Are a current member in good standing of the Washington State Bar Association, OR a current member in good standing of another State Bar Association AND must become a member of the Washington State Bar Association by passing the next Washington State Bar exam.

Required Question

Salary : $84,120 - $137,244

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