Assistant Attorney General - Tacoma Division's Torts ...

OverviewJoin the Torts Division – Defending Those Who Serve the People of Washington EverydayDo 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 and want to join a collaborative team of attorneys, paralegals, and investigators, apply to the Torts Division today.The Tacoma Section of the Torts Division has an immediate opening for a trial attorney licensed to practice in Washington and eager to practice in state and federal courts throughout the state. The Torts Division represents State agencies and state employees who serve the citizens of Washington when sued for damages. Attorneys handle cases from inception through resolution with support from professional staff and investigators, spanning diverse clients and theories of liability, with ongoing training and development. The division provides opportunities for growth as an oral and written advocate within a dedicated and supportive team.The Torts Division’s Tacoma Office is located at Pacific Plaza; additional offices are in Seattle, Olympia (Tumwater), and Spokane. Telework in a hybrid work environment is available.All employees and volunteers of the Washington State Attorney General's Office serve a crucial role in protecting the state, its people, and resources. The AGO is committed to public service, diversity, and professional development. For more information about the AGO, review the Office's Annual Report here.Salary and BenefitsThe AGO offers a competitive salary range and benefits. Base salary range for this position is $82,212 to $153,996, with the exact amount determined under the AGO salary schedule per Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. Other compensation includes longevity pay after five years, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental (100% coverage for dental), retirement, deferred compensation, holidays, annual leave, sick leave, flexible schedules, telecommuting, and professional development support. The AGO also offers bar dues support for new assignments and loan forgiveness eligibility, plus a mentoring program and wellness initiatives.Additional salary and step information in the attached schedule is available in the original posting and is not reproduced here.DutiesThe Torts Division defends tort claims and lawsuits against state agencies, officers, and employees arising from official duties. Attorneys provide legal and risk management guidance to state agencies and the Office of Financial Management on tort matters. The caseload includes various agencies and theories of liability, including cases involving child protection, supervision of individuals released from incarceration, road design or maintenance, false arrest or excessive force, premises liability, medical negligence, employment discrimination, motor vehicle accidents, and maritime injuries on Washington State ferries. Attorneys work with client agencies, staff, and risk managers, lead trial teams, conduct jury and bench trials, handle appeals, and contribute to a collaborative, fast-paced practice environment.Responsibilities include maintaining extensive procedural and substantive legal knowledge, developing legal strategy, discovery, timely communication of case developments, and coordinating with investigators and supporting staff.QualificationsIn addition to meeting qualifications to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, qualified applicants will have:Exceptional interpersonal and communication skillsGood problem-solving abilitiesExcellent legal judgmentAbility to work in a collaborative team with litigation support, investigative staff, client agencies, risk managers, and other AGO attorneysIdeal candidates will also offer:Five or more years of progressive legal experience, including civil litigationExperience taking and defending depositionsActive civil motions practiceExperience with expert witnessesAlternative dispute resolution experienceTrial experience in state and/or federal courtBriefing and arguing cases on appealInteraction with high-level client representativesExperience working with diverse backgrounds and communication stylesTorts and civil litigation experience is advantageous but not essential. Applicants must graduate from ABA-accredited law school or complete WSBA Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and be licensed to practice in Washington. Applicants who meet other qualifications and are actively pursuing admission by motion will be considered. The AGO values diversity and an inclusive environment to serve the public.Supplemental InformationThis position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / WFSE AFSCME Council 28. The AAG salary is set between $82,212 and $153,996 and will be determined in accordance with Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package includes medical/dental options, retirement, life and disability insurance, and non-financial benefits such as a collaborative work environment and opportunities for professional development. The AGO supports environmental stewardship through its terested applicants must apply online and upload: a letter of interest, resume, law school transcript (unofficial acceptable), and a writing sample (no more than 10 pages). For questions, contact Tacoma Torts Section Chief Garth Ahearn at : The Washington State Office of the Attorney General does not use the E-Verify system. This agency is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, veteran status, disability, or service animal status. Reasonable accommodations in the application process can be requested via the recruitment team at ; the Washington Relay Service is available at 1-800-676-3777 or #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-23