The Washington State Attorney General’s Office (AGO) is once again accepting applications from qualified applicants who wish to be included in the AGO’s candidate pool. It is important to note, however, that due to the state’s current economic situation and outlook, hiring activity will most likely be very limited.
The Licensed Attorney Hiring Program, a centralized, year-round process, begins with the submission of a letter of interest, a completed and signed application (links to application form below), a current resume and final law school transcript, a copy of which is acceptable.
After a thorough review of the submitted application material, qualified applicants (see description below) are invited to participate in an initial screening interview. Based on these interviews, a very limited number of applicants are placed into the “candidate pool.” Those placed in the pool are not guaranteed employment with the AGO, however, their files are referred to divisions with openings consistent with the candidate’s stated geographical and divisional interests, and their experience. Candidates remain under active consideration for approximately twelve months.
Qualified applicants are individuals who excel academically as demonstrated by law school grades and class standing, and who demonstrate a high degree of competence based on prior experiences. 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. We also seek applicants with a diverse background in education, previous work experience, law school activities, extracurricular activities, community service and areas of interest that enhance our office.
Because the office utilizes a candidate pool to fill attorney positions, most actual vacancies are NOT advertised externally. However, the office will occasionally experience a vacancy that is not easily filled by the existing candidate pool and will advertise the vacancy externally. Accordingly, all applicants, including pool candidates, are encouraged to check this site frequently for such postings. If you are in the pool and believe you are qualified, please contact the recruitment office by the posted deadline.
Attorney and Law Clerk Application (in Word) / Attorney and Law Clerk Application (in PDF)