State of Washington
Paralegal 2, Torts Division, WA State Office of the Attorney General
State of Washington, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127
Position and SalaryThe Attorney General’s Office is recruiting for two permanent full-time
Paralegal 2
positions in the Torts Division. These positions are located in Seattle, Washington, and are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).Paralegal 2 (Range 55) salary range: $59,844 - $80,460 (Effective 7/1/2024). The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the preferred candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.The following stipends may apply based on position requirements:Incumbents assigned to our Seattle office location receive an additional 5% King County Location Pay stipend.Incumbents assigned to a position designated as requiring dual language skills will receive a 5% Dual Language Requirement Pay stipend.About the Torts Division:The Torts Division defends tort claims and lawsuits against all state agencies, officers, and employees. The majority of cases are based on actions brought under theories of liability for state actions such as highway design, release of inmates, injuries on state property, medical malpractice, employment, childcare and custody, auto accidents, maritime injuries, false arrests, and unreasonable force. With such a diverse practice, our paralegals are continuously engaged in challenging and interesting work. Opportunities to learn and achieve professional growth through experience, mentorship, and training are encouraged and supported.The Torts Division strives to consistently exemplify AGO core values, i.e., to deliver high-quality legal services; conduct ourselves with integrity, professionalism, civility, and transparency; and promote a collegial and diverse workplace that values, respects, and supports our employees.Duties and Essential Functions of a Paralegal 2:This position provides advanced paralegal assistance to Assistant Attorneys General in defending lawsuits against the State of Washington, its agencies, and employees. The paralegal works as part of a trial team consisting of attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and legal office assistants.Some of the duties include:Independently initiate and compose formal discovery requests directed to plaintiff(s) and other parties.Review and prepare responses to formal discovery requests, including interrogatories, requests for production, and requests for admission, as well as CR 30(b)(6) deponents.Identify, locate, collect, organize, analyze, assess and manage documentary, statistical, computer, and demonstrative evidence, including records and other information obtained from public and private sources, state and federal agencies, mental health and health care providers, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, financial institutions, courts, military agencies, and other sources, for use in civil litigation.Analyze facts of cases; identify legal issues; develop rapport with, secure cooperation from, and interview potential witnesses, either in person or on the telephone to obtain information relating to the facts and defense of cases.Independently compose affidavits and/or declarations as attachments to motions and briefs.Design and utilize computer databases for document management, document tracking, and case analysis.Utilize various computer software programs to design and develop timelines, charts, graphs, and other demonstrative evidence. Design, develop, and implement computerized presentations to be utilized in the presentation of evidence at mediation and/or trial.Locate, interview and recommend professional experts for the purposes of consultation, discovery, and trial testimony. Identify, compile, track and provide evidence (testimonial and foundational) to experts, maintain contact with experts on a regular basis, discuss findings, and advise attorney of expert opinion.Maintain contact with witnesses and clients, keeping them informed of progress of the case at each phase, i.e., discovery, trial, and appeal.Prepare for and participate at mediation and trial.This recruitment announcement may be used to fill multiple open positions for the same classification, in addition to the position(s) listed in this announcement.Ideal Candidate ProfileQualifications:Research suggests that women and people of color are less likely to apply unless they are confident they meet 100% of the listed qualifications. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, and allow us to evaluate your combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities demonstrated using an intentional equity lens.Combination of four years of experience through paralegal certification, two-year paralegal degree, and/or paraprofessional experience in support of an attorney.ORThree years’ experience as a Paralegal 1 in Washington State Service.You may have gained applicable paraprofessional experience through previous Paralegal or Legal Assistant work.SKILLS AND ABILITIES:Civil litigation experience preferred.About the Washington State Office of the Attorney GeneralJoin an agency whose work impacts the lives of every resident of Washington State.The Attorney General’s Office (AGO) touches the lives of every resident in this state. We serve more than 230 state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges and universities, as well as the Legislature and the Governor. The Office is comprised of nearly 700 attorneys and 800 professional staff, all working together to deliver the highest quality professional legal services to Washington state officials, agencies, and entities.This includes:Economic justice and consumer protections (safeguarding consumers, protecting youth, seniors, and other vulnerable populations)Social justice and civil rights (addressing discrimination, environmental protection, and veteran and military resources)Criminal justice and public safety (investigative and prosecutorial support, financial crimes)And
much more !Our agency also has national reach, representing the State of Washington before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and trial courts in all cases that involve the state’s interest. If you want to make a difference, we may be the perfect fit for you! Learn more about the AGO
here .Commitment to DiversityDiversity is critical to the success of the mission of the AGO. This means recognizing, respecting, and appreciating all cultures and backgrounds-- and fostering the inclusion of differences between people. Appreciating, valuing, and implementing principles of diversity permits AGO employees to achieve their fullest potential in an inclusive, respectful environment.Excellent benefitsWashington State offers one of the most competitive
benefits packages
in the nation, including Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Sick, and Other Leave; 11 Paid Holidays per year; Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) plans; and Life Insurance. Beyond these traditional benefits, we offer Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave, and more.With the goal of employee health and wellness, we also offer flexible schedules and telework options for most positions, a Wellness Program, the Employee Assistance Program, and numerous affinity groups to foster community and connection.APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:A letter of interest, describing your specific qualifications for the position.A current resume detailing experience and education.READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION COMPLETELY:Carefully review your application for accuracy, spelling, and grammar before submitting.You may not reapply to this posting for 30 days.The initial screening of applications will be solely based on the contents and completeness of the “work experience” and “education” sections of your application in
www.careers.wa.gov , completeness of the application material submitted, and responses to the supplemental questionnaire.A resume will not substitute for completing the “work experience” section of the application.All information may be verified and documentation may be required.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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Paralegal 2
positions in the Torts Division. These positions are located in Seattle, Washington, and are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).Paralegal 2 (Range 55) salary range: $59,844 - $80,460 (Effective 7/1/2024). The base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the preferred candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.The following stipends may apply based on position requirements:Incumbents assigned to our Seattle office location receive an additional 5% King County Location Pay stipend.Incumbents assigned to a position designated as requiring dual language skills will receive a 5% Dual Language Requirement Pay stipend.About the Torts Division:The Torts Division defends tort claims and lawsuits against all state agencies, officers, and employees. The majority of cases are based on actions brought under theories of liability for state actions such as highway design, release of inmates, injuries on state property, medical malpractice, employment, childcare and custody, auto accidents, maritime injuries, false arrests, and unreasonable force. With such a diverse practice, our paralegals are continuously engaged in challenging and interesting work. Opportunities to learn and achieve professional growth through experience, mentorship, and training are encouraged and supported.The Torts Division strives to consistently exemplify AGO core values, i.e., to deliver high-quality legal services; conduct ourselves with integrity, professionalism, civility, and transparency; and promote a collegial and diverse workplace that values, respects, and supports our employees.Duties and Essential Functions of a Paralegal 2:This position provides advanced paralegal assistance to Assistant Attorneys General in defending lawsuits against the State of Washington, its agencies, and employees. The paralegal works as part of a trial team consisting of attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and legal office assistants.Some of the duties include:Independently initiate and compose formal discovery requests directed to plaintiff(s) and other parties.Review and prepare responses to formal discovery requests, including interrogatories, requests for production, and requests for admission, as well as CR 30(b)(6) deponents.Identify, locate, collect, organize, analyze, assess and manage documentary, statistical, computer, and demonstrative evidence, including records and other information obtained from public and private sources, state and federal agencies, mental health and health care providers, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, financial institutions, courts, military agencies, and other sources, for use in civil litigation.Analyze facts of cases; identify legal issues; develop rapport with, secure cooperation from, and interview potential witnesses, either in person or on the telephone to obtain information relating to the facts and defense of cases.Independently compose affidavits and/or declarations as attachments to motions and briefs.Design and utilize computer databases for document management, document tracking, and case analysis.Utilize various computer software programs to design and develop timelines, charts, graphs, and other demonstrative evidence. Design, develop, and implement computerized presentations to be utilized in the presentation of evidence at mediation and/or trial.Locate, interview and recommend professional experts for the purposes of consultation, discovery, and trial testimony. Identify, compile, track and provide evidence (testimonial and foundational) to experts, maintain contact with experts on a regular basis, discuss findings, and advise attorney of expert opinion.Maintain contact with witnesses and clients, keeping them informed of progress of the case at each phase, i.e., discovery, trial, and appeal.Prepare for and participate at mediation and trial.This recruitment announcement may be used to fill multiple open positions for the same classification, in addition to the position(s) listed in this announcement.Ideal Candidate ProfileQualifications:Research suggests that women and people of color are less likely to apply unless they are confident they meet 100% of the listed qualifications. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, and allow us to evaluate your combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities demonstrated using an intentional equity lens.Combination of four years of experience through paralegal certification, two-year paralegal degree, and/or paraprofessional experience in support of an attorney.ORThree years’ experience as a Paralegal 1 in Washington State Service.You may have gained applicable paraprofessional experience through previous Paralegal or Legal Assistant work.SKILLS AND ABILITIES:Civil litigation experience preferred.About the Washington State Office of the Attorney GeneralJoin an agency whose work impacts the lives of every resident of Washington State.The Attorney General’s Office (AGO) touches the lives of every resident in this state. We serve more than 230 state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges and universities, as well as the Legislature and the Governor. The Office is comprised of nearly 700 attorneys and 800 professional staff, all working together to deliver the highest quality professional legal services to Washington state officials, agencies, and entities.This includes:Economic justice and consumer protections (safeguarding consumers, protecting youth, seniors, and other vulnerable populations)Social justice and civil rights (addressing discrimination, environmental protection, and veteran and military resources)Criminal justice and public safety (investigative and prosecutorial support, financial crimes)And
much more !Our agency also has national reach, representing the State of Washington before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and trial courts in all cases that involve the state’s interest. If you want to make a difference, we may be the perfect fit for you! Learn more about the AGO
here .Commitment to DiversityDiversity is critical to the success of the mission of the AGO. This means recognizing, respecting, and appreciating all cultures and backgrounds-- and fostering the inclusion of differences between people. Appreciating, valuing, and implementing principles of diversity permits AGO employees to achieve their fullest potential in an inclusive, respectful environment.Excellent benefitsWashington State offers one of the most competitive
benefits packages
in the nation, including Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Sick, and Other Leave; 11 Paid Holidays per year; Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) plans; and Life Insurance. Beyond these traditional benefits, we offer Dependent Care Assistance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Tuition Waiver, Deferred Compensation, Employee Recognition Leave, and more.With the goal of employee health and wellness, we also offer flexible schedules and telework options for most positions, a Wellness Program, the Employee Assistance Program, and numerous affinity groups to foster community and connection.APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:In addition to completing the online application, applicants must attach the following documents to their profile in order to be considered for this position:A letter of interest, describing your specific qualifications for the position.A current resume detailing experience and education.READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION COMPLETELY:Carefully review your application for accuracy, spelling, and grammar before submitting.You may not reapply to this posting for 30 days.The initial screening of applications will be solely based on the contents and completeness of the “work experience” and “education” sections of your application in
www.careers.wa.gov , completeness of the application material submitted, and responses to the supplemental questionnaire.A resume will not substitute for completing the “work experience” section of the application.All information may be verified and documentation may be required.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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr