Assistant Attorney General - Social and Health Services Division

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Assistant Attorney General - Social and Health Services Division

Salary

Depends on Qualifications

Location

Thurston County – Olympia, WA

Job Type

Exempt

Job Number

2021-08453

Department

Attorney General's Office

Division

Social and Health Services - Olympia

Opening Date

08/09/2021

Closing Date

8/24/2021 11:59 PM Pacific

Description

Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact Kalea Muigai at 360-586-7698.  Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.


All employees and volunteers of the Washington State Attorney General's Office serve a crucial role in the protection of the state, its people and resources, thereby providing a  degree of job satisfaction that is incomparable. The AGO is composed of diverse, collegial and supremely talented legal professionals who are resolute in their commitment to public service and share the common goal of advancing the public interest. For more information about the AGO, we encourage you to review the Office's Annual Report which can be found HERE and view THIS VIDEO.

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The Washington State Attorney General's Office’s Social and Health Services Division in Olympia has an immediate opening for an Assistant Attorney General in the Mental Health Section. This is a great opportunity to do truly meaningful and interesting work in an evolving area of the law, in a supportive, team-oriented environment.

Duties

The  mental health section provides legal representation to the Behavioral Health Administration of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, including the Special Commitment Center (SCC) and Western State Hospital (WSH). With some emphasis on institutional, involuntary commitment and health law, our practice assists clients in striking the right balance between effective mental health treatment, personal rights, and the public welfare.  In addition, the section’s work includes new responsibilities created by recently enacted legislation, SB 5163.  That legislation requires DSHS to become primarily responsible for Less Restrictive Alternative releases of Sexually Violent Predators (SVP) from the SCC.    
 
This AAG position will perform a variety of work, which, depending on experience, may include:

  • Handling civil commitment hearings in Pierce County Superior Court (both bench and jury), including felony cases;
  • Representation of SCC in federal and state litigation concerning the conditions of confinement at SCC; 
  • Handling contempt hearings in state and municipal courts in western Washington;
  • Representing the SCC's interest in state court SVP commitment cases throughout the state;
  • Providing client advice to senior managers at the SCC on issues ranging from constitutional law to real estate practice; 
  • Providing client advice to WSH on issues ranging from health care, federal financial reimbursement, constitutional law, and patient rights;
  • Handling guardianship cases in state courts;
  • Handling public records litigation in state courts;
  • Handling appeals in both state and federal courts; and
  • Assisting on federal class action and/or complex litigation.

This full-time position is located in Tumwater and involves travel, mostly to Pierce County, but also to courthouses throughout western Washington. At this time, the majority of our office is working remotely and the person hired to this position will primarily telecommute full time until we transition back to working in-person in Tumwater.  Currently, many courts are allowing appearances via zoom or other means for remote appearance, but you may occasionally attend court in-person at the court’s discretion.  Our regular court docket at Western State Hospital may transition to in-person appearances before our office returns to in-person work, and the person in this position would be expected to attend that docket in-person on any assigned court days.

Qualifications

In addition to meeting the requirements to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, the successful candidate will offer the following set of skills:

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills;
  • Ability and interest in working in a team setting;
  • Ability to thrive in a fast paced environment with competing demands;
  • Ability to multitask and willingness to provide coverage for others;
  • Comfortable working in settings around people with mental illness; and
  • Respect and collegiality toward support staff and attorneys, contributing to our highly-valued positive work environment.

This position can involve litigation in a variety of settings, as described above. As a result, some litigation experience is desired, but it is not required. If you do not have litigation experience, but are enthusiastic about getting this experience, we encourage you to apply.

Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and be licensed to practice law in Washington state. (Applicants who meet the other stated qualifications and are actively pursuing admission by motion will also be considered.) The AGO seeks applicants who are committed to public service as demonstrated by an applicant's background, talents, attitude, and enthusiasm for public law practice. The AGO greatly encourages, celebrates and values diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfill its mission of providing excellent, independent and ethical legal services to the State of Washington and protecting the rights of its people.

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8/19/21 COVID Update!
Please note that the AGO’s original target date to re-open our offices for visitors and staff was set for September 13, 2021. In consideration of recent developments with the pandemic, we have decided to push our target re-open date out to October 18, 2021. Otherwise, our strategy remains as outlined in the previous update below.
 
Covid Update!
We feel it is important to share our return to work plans as you consider joining our team. The location of each position is noted on every posting; however currently all staff, whose duties permit, are teleworking. The AGO is planning to re-open its offices for visitors and staff beginning September 13, 2021. Additionally, a draft policy is being reviewed for possible adoption that will require all staff to be vaccinated as a qualifying fitness for duty. Staff precluded from vaccinations due to medical conditions and/or sincerely held religious beliefs will have opportunity to engage with Human Resources to explore reasonable accommodation. Applicants or candidates being considered for employment shall not share their vaccination status with hiring managers or interview panels.


Supplemental Information

This Assistant Attorney General position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. AAG salaries start at $69,396. Ultimately, AAG salaries are set in accordance with the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package is also offered which includes a choice of medical/dental insurance plans, retirement, life and basic long-term disability insurance. In addition, there are non-financial benefits that include working in a collaborative and supportive work environment where professional development and work-life balance are highly valued. The health, safety and professional satisfaction of all AGO staff and volunteers is critical to fulfilling the mission of the AGO to provide exceptional legal services. Complementing and fostering this goal is a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, as evidenced in the AGO's environmental policies.  

Interested applicants must apply by hitting the "apply" button above.  In addition to the on-line application, one must upload, via the system and preferably as PDFs:

  • A letter of interest;
  • Resume;
  • Law school transcript (unofficial copy is acceptable); and
  • Writing sample.


If you have questions about this position and/or wish to learn more about it before applying, we encourage and welcome you to contact Western State Hospital Team Leader Nick Williamson at nicholas.williamson@atg.wa.gov or Special Commitment Center Team Leader Craig Mingay at craig.mingay@atg.wa.gov or (360) 534-4878. The deadline to apply is August 24, 2021.

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Honoring diversity, equity and inclusion means that as an agency, and as individuals, we are committed to ensuring that all employees and volunteers enjoy a respectful, safe and supportive working environment.  Only by fostering the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, cultures and attributes, can AGO employees and volunteers achieve their fullest potential and best advance the goals and mission of the AGO.  
 
The AGO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation/gender identity, age, disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, retaliation or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability. Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact Kalea Muigai at 360-586-7698.  Those with a hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01
Your preferred name:
02
Your pronoun(s):
03
Please describe your experience or interest in behavioral health law.
04
Have you ever worked or volunteered for the Washington State Attorney General's Office? If yes, indicate dates and positions in which you served. If "NO", you will need to indicate "NO" or "N/A" in order to proceed with your application.
05
List all activities or community involvement, past or present, that demonstrate a commitment to public service.
06
Are you a current member of the Washington State Bar Association?
  • Yes
  • No
07
What is your Washington State Bar Association number?
08
It is important to note that to serve as an Assistant Attorney General, one must be a licensed attorney with the WSBA. If seeking admission to the WSBA via reciprocity, score transfer, motion or other means, please explain IN DETAIL when you applied for admission, current status of the application and expected date of admission?
09
Have you ever been subject to discipline or censure by a Bar Association or other licensing organization? If "YES" provide a full explanation for each disciplinary action. If the answer is "NO" you must indicate this by typing "NO" in order to proceed with your application.
10
Is there any Bar disciplinary proceeding pending against you? If "YES", provide a full explanation. If the answer is "NO", you must indicate this by typing "NO" in order to proceed with your application.
11
Have you ever been held in contempt or sanctioned by any state or federal court or administrative agency? If "Yes", provide a full explanation for each action. If the answer is "No" you must indicate this by typing "No" in order to proceed with your application.
12
Have you ever been fired, asked to resign, or resigned in lieu of termination from any position? If "YES", you must provide a full explanation for each termination. If the answer is "NO", you must indicate this by typing "NO" in order to proceed with your application.
13
Have you participated, whether as an attorney, paralegal, legal assistant, or in any other capacity, in the representation of any party in a matter where the party's interest was materially adverse to that of the State, its agencies, or its officers or employees? If "YES", please identify all such matters, including the parties to the matter, the court and cause number of the matter, and your role in the matter. If "NO", you must indicate this by typing "NO" in order to proceed with your application. If you require additional space, please attach additional sheets and indicate your attachment here.
14
Have you participated as a judge, arbitrator, mediator, adjudicative officer, or as a law clerk to such a person, in a matter in which the State or any of its agencies, officers, or employees were a party? If YES, please identify all such matters, including the parties to the matter, the court and cause number of the matter, and your role in the matter. If "NO", you must indicate this by typing "NO" in order to proceed with your application. If you require additional space, please attach additional sheets and indicate your attachment here.
15
Is there any other matter, person, entity, or personal interest that might present a conflict of interest or otherwise limit your ability to perform work for the Attorney General's Office or represent a state agency, officer, or employee? If YES, please identify such matters, persons, entities, or personal interests with sufficient detail to allow the Attorney General's Office to understand the nature of the potential conflict of interest. You are not required to disclose any pending or contemplated complaint or dispute for which the law allows you to remain anonymous; however, you are responsible for not accepting assignments that would violate conflict of interest or confidentiality provisions of the Rules of Professional Conduct or other laws with regard to such matters. If "NO", you must indicate this by typing "NO" in order to proceed with your application. If you require additional space, please attach additional sheets and indicate your attachment here.
16
Please be advised that the AGO thoroughly checks references, including one's current employer. HOWEVER, it is very important to note that references are ONLY checked after at least one interview. Any concerns about checking references can be discussed during any interview. For the sake of efficiency, we ask that you proactively provide a release by responding affirmatively to the following statement. I authorize the Washington State Attorney General's Office (AGO) to contact any or all of my former or present employers, or organizations for which services have been provided, for the purposes of verification and reference. This may include information of a confidential nature, to include but is not limited to reviewing my personnel file, contacting any references, and/or contacting anyone else who might be familiar with my past job performance. I knowingly and voluntarily release the state of Washington, the AGO, its individual employees, and all my former or present employers, and their individual employees, from any and all known and unknown claims for damages or other relief arising out of the AGO's request for and receipt of employment information, unless my current or former employer is prohibited by state or federal law from disclosing the information that the AGO requests. PLEASE TYPE YOUR FULL NAME IN RESPONSE TO THIS SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTION TO PROVIDE SUCH AUTHORIZATION.
17
Have you uploaded all of the required material (i.e., letter of interest, resume, law school transcript and writing sample) with this application?
  • Yes
  • No
18
We feel it is important to share our return to work plans as you consider joining our team. This position is located in the city advertised; however currently all staff, whose duties permit, are teleworking. The AGO is planning to re-open its offices for visitors and staff beginning Sept 13, 2021. Additionally, a draft policy is being reviewed for possible adoption that will require all staff to be vaccinated as a qualifying fitness for duty. Staff precluded from vaccinations due to medical conditions and/or sincerely held religious beliefs will have opportunity to engage with Human Resources to explore reasonable accommodation. Applicants or candidates being considered for employment shall not share their vaccination status with hiring managers or interview panels. PLEASE TYPE YOUR INITIALS IN RESPONSE TO THIS SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTION TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ THIS STATEMENT REGARDING WORKING CONDITIONS.

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