STAFF ATTORNEY, TRIBAL COURT PUBLIC DEFENSE CLINIC

About the position

The Staff Attorney for the Tribal Court Public Defense Clinic at the University of Washington is responsible for providing legal representation to indigent defendants in the Tulalip Tribal Court. This role involves managing an active caseload, supporting law students in their experiential learning, and ensuring continuity of representation for clients. The Staff Attorney will work closely with the Clinic's faculty and staff, participate in court hearings, and contribute to the improvement of the Tribal justice system.

Responsibilities

• Providing representation for Clinic clients and summer coverage for cases handled by Clinic students and faculty.
• Serving as a resource to Clinic faculty, legal staff, students, and interns.
• Conducting case evaluation and representing clients charged with crimes in the Tulalip Tribal Court at various hearings.
• Attending Clinic staff meetings and participating in the analysis of cases and legal issues.
• Traveling to local correctional facilities for jail visits with incarcerated clients.
• Conducting case management for the Clinic and coordinating case intake and management practices.
• Managing client communications and conducting outreach activities.
• Working with Clinic staff to manage the conflict check system and maintain internal databases.
• Preparing and filing documents in compliance with current filing requirements and maintaining electronic files.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of criminal defense practice in a public defender office (Tribal, State or Federal).
• Admission to the Washington State Bar Association or current license to practice law in any jurisdiction in the U.S.
• Ability to apply for and receive admission to WSBA within 6 months of hiring.
• Ability to sit for the Tulalip Bar within 30 days of hire.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong educational or experiential background in Indian Law and/or Tribal Court practice experience.
• Demonstrated history of working with Tribal clientele.
• Work experience within or in service to Tribal communities.

Benefits

• Generous benefits and work/life programs.
• Professional growth opportunities.
• Diversity and intellectual excitement in the workplace.