Salary: $83,856.00 - $157,080.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number:Department: Attorney General's Office
Opening Date: 09/25/2026
Closing Date: 10/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
DescriptionThe Social and Health Services Division of the WA State Attorney General's Office in Tumwater, WA seeks an experienced attorney for its Behavioral Health Section.Our team of 44 attorneys and 28 professional staff work at the heart of Washington's social safety net. We provide legal support for five state agencies, including the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA), to provide benefits, protection, and care to some of our state's most vulnerable and disenfranchised residents.
Our cases range from large federal court class action cases to individual administrative appeals. Our recent cases include challenges to state employee health benefits programs and a challenge to the adequacy of the state's mental health services.
We also handle a wide range of legal matters, including:
- Seeking protections for vulnerable adults at risk of abuse or neglect;
- Defending lawsuits brought by legal advocacy groups organizations on behalf of Medicaid recipients and individuals with disabilities;
- Complex civil rights challenges by residents of the Special Commitment Center for sexually violent predators;
- Civil and felony commitment hearings and trials;
- Contract disputes with medical providers and managed care organizations; and
- Appeals related to eligibility for medical services.
Our division is dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive workplace. We prioritize employee growth through a culture that recognizes hard work and provides active support for career advancement. Regular social events help us connect and strengthen our collaborative team dynamic - join us!
DutiesThe Behavioral Health Sections represent the Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration (BHHA) of the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), including the Special Commitment Center (SCC), the Office of Forensic Mental Health Services (OFMHS), and Western State Hospital (WSH).This position offers an opportunity for an enthusiastic and motivated attorney to work in a collegial, fast-paced environment while developing litigation and client counseling skills in state and federal court, civil rights law, and behavioral health law. Our work supports clients in balancing effective treatment, individual rights, and public safety.Attorneys in the section gain hands-on courtroom experience across Western Washington and collaborate with a close-knit team of attorneys and professional staff on a wide variety of matters. Areas of focus include:- Civil and forensic mental health issues, including the confinement of sexually violent predators, individuals found not guilty by reason of insanity, and patients under involuntary commitment.
- Legal matters related to the operation of state psychiatric institutions and treatment facilities.
Depending on experience, responsibilities may include:- Handling civil commitment hearings in Pierce, Thurston or King County Superior Court (bench and jury).
- Representing SCC in federal and state litigation regarding conditions of confinement.
- Managing contempt hearings, guardianship cases, public records litigation, and appeals.
- Providing client advice on issues involving constitutional law, health care, reimbursement, patient rights, and facility operations.
- Assisting on federal class actions and complex litigation.
This full-time position is based in Tumwater, WA, with travel primarily to Pierce County and other Western Washington courthouses. Many courts allow remote appearances, though in-person attendance may be required, especially for the regular docket at WSH. QualificationsApplicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the ABA or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program and; be licensed to practice law in Washington State. (Applicants who meet the other stated qualifications and are actively pursuing admission will also be considered.) 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. The AGO greatly encourages, celebrates and values diversity, appreciating that a workforce composed of those from different backgrounds and experiences creates an inclusive environment, strengthens positive relationships with the local community and brings new perspectives and approaches to fulfill its mission of providing excellent, independent and ethical legal services to the State of Washington and protecting the rights of its people.
Supplemental InformationThis AAG position is represented by the Association of Washington Assistant Attorneys General (AWAAG) / Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) AFSCME Council 28, AFL-CIO. AAG salaries are set between $83,856 and $157,080. The exact amount is set in accordance with
Appendix B of the AWAAG CBA. A competitive state benefits package is also offered which includes a choice of medical/dental insurance plans, retirement, life and basic long-term disability insurance. In addition, there are non-financial benefits that include working in a collaborative and supportive work environment where professional development and work-life balance are highly valued. The health, safety and professional satisfaction of all AGO staff and volunteers is critical to fulfilling the mission of the AGO to provide exceptional legal services.
Interested applicants must apply by hitting the "apply" button above. In addition to the on-line application, one must upload, via the system and
preferably as PDFs:
- A letter of interest;
- Resume;
- Law school transcript (unofficial copy is acceptable) with date law degree was conferred; and
- Writing sample (10 pages or less).
If you have questions about this position and/or wish to learn more about it before applying, we encourage and welcome you to contact Division Chief Natalie King at or 360.586.6485. 
