Prosecuting City Attorney

About the role

The City of Tacoma is seeking a highly skilled attorney to join the Prosecution Division of the City Attorney’s Office. This entry‑level Prosecuting City Attorney will prosecute municipal court cases, provide professional legal services, and may also handle civil litigation. The role requires independently managing a substantial, high‑volume caseload, demonstrating exceptional organizational skills, and thriving under pressure while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. The attorney will work alongside a dedicated legal team, collaborate with fellow attorneys and stakeholders, and contribute to the integrity of Tacoma’s legal system and the interests of its residents.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education: Juris Doctorate
• Desired Qualifications: trial experience in criminal law, ability to manage a high volume of cases, computer skills
• Licensing: admission to the Washington State Bar Association and a license to practice law in Washington

Knowledge & Skills

• Principles and practices of criminal law
• Methods, materials and practices used in legal research and investigation
• Organization and analysis of case facts and legal precedents
• Office practices, procedures and equipment
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and general and legal vocabulary
• Understanding of city organization, operations, policies and objectives
• Providing professional legal services required in municipal government operations
• Organizing and evaluating case facts, evidence and documentation
• Performing legal research and preparing legal opinions
• Participating in deliberative proceedings and providing effective legal counsel
• Communicating effectively both orally and in writing
• Reading, interpreting, applying and explaining statutes, codes, rules, regulations, policies and procedures
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative and effective working relationships
• Analyzing situations accurately and adopting effective courses of action
• Meeting schedules and timelines; working effectively under pressure and deadlines

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly Rate: $47.25 – $66.50
• Annual Salary: $98,280 – $138,320
• Employee benefits provided by the City of Tacoma

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At the City of Tacoma, we’re on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We’re committed to eliminating racial and other disparities, and we actively seek candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. We believe diversity of thought, background, and experience contributes to our success and innovation. If you’re passionate about this role and our mission, we encourage you to apply. We welcome less‑traditional backgrounds and value a variety of perspectives.