Associate Attorney

Associate Attorney Law Offices of Jason Ans. Smith & North County Public Defense PLLC -

Bellingham, WA Posted:

5/13/2026 -

Expires:

6/15/2026

Job ID:

293413253

Job Description Job Title:

Associate Attorney Job Summary:

North County Public Defense focuses on criminal defense and provides effective, compassionate, and client-centered legal services. We represent clients in various communities across Washington—including Bellingham, Blaine, Everson, Lynden, and Sumas— who are charged with misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses. In addition, our team is dedicated to advocating for indigent defendants facing felony charges. Through diligent advocacy and unwavering dedication, we strive to provide exceptional legal representation with integrity, compassion, and determination, defending the rights of individuals accused of crimes, ensuring they receive a fair trial, and that their voices are heard. Our firm is committed to justice and fairness, ensuring every client receives a strong defense and is treated with dignity. Due to the continued demand for our services, our law office has an immediate need for the professional services of an Associate Attorney to handle criminal law-related matters, including representing clients in legal proceedings, conducting legal research, and providing legal advice to clients. The Associate Attorney will also draft relevant legal documents and attend court hearings. The hired individual will be responsible for the following duties:

• Represent clients in criminal law matters, including those accused of misdemeanor and felonies, by providing clear explanations of charges, potential penalties, legal rights, and options for plea bargains or trials.
• Gather and review evidence, interview witnesses, and work with investigators to build a strong defense.
• Conduct legal research, analyze case precedent and procedural rules, and apply findings to draft motions and develop effective trial strategies.
• Draft legal documents, including suppression motions, plea agreements, and sentencing memoranda.
• Provide comprehensive pre-trial preparation, such as motions to dismiss, as well as courtroom advocacy to ensure persuasive and effective arguments and defenses are made.
• Negotiate plea bargains and restitution agreements to reduce charges or penalties on behalf of the clients.
• Build and maintain effective attorney-client relationships through empathy, confidentiality, and effective communication to support informed client-decision making.
• Stay current on developments in criminal law, including new case precedent and procedural changes, while collaborating closely with attorneys, paralegals, and legal experts.

Minimum Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from a U.S law school
• Alternative education requirement: Master of Law (LLM) from a U.S law school
• Licensed to practice law in the state of Washington.
• 18 months of legal work experience at a law firm, involving legal research and preparation of legal documents
• Proficiency in LexisNexis and Westlaw.

Job Summary Company Details Company Law Offices of Jason Ans. Smith & North County Public Defense PLLC Industry Offices of Lawyers Job Information Location Bellingham, WA Website https://www.northcountypublicdefense.com/contact/ Job Type Full Time Employee Experience 1+ to 2 Years Career Level Experienced (Non-Manager) Education Level Professional Job Position 1 Position(s) Open Salary/Wage $105,040.00 - $105,100.00 /year Duration Over 150 Days Additional Information Federal Contractor No Affirmative Action Plan No