Rule 9 Licensed Legal Intern | Criminal Division

Position Description

Our office is committed to making Seattle a safe, healthy, empowered, and thriving community for everyone. We strive to address historical injustices within the court system with self-examination and to pursue justice in Seattle with integrity, creativity, and fairness. We believe working transparently, innovatively, and in collaboration with our partners in the community is necessary to achieve outcomes that promote equity, accountability, and healing.

Led by Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison, the Seattle City Attorney’s Office (SCAO) is the biggest municipal prosecutor’s office in the state. SCAO prosecutes all simple and gross misdemeanors occurring within the City of Seattle, along with civil infractions. A Rule 9 internship with SCAO provides an opportunity for significant courtroom experience. Interns work closely with prosecutors, professional staff, law enforcement, judges, defense attorneys, and the public. The position is fast-paced and provides a unique and rewarding experience.

SCAO Criminal Division is currently seeking interested candidates for Rule 9 internship in all semesters or quarters of 2026. Internships are designed for full-time employment in the summer and part-time employment during the school year to accommodate interns’ academic schedules and credit requirements.

Current Openings:

This posting will remain open, allowing candidates to submit applications anytime. When a position becomes available, we will review all applications on file. We recommend that applicants submit a new application if updates are needed or if you have not received communication from us regarding an opportunity for the upcoming semester. Ideal candidates should be available for court coverage three to four days weekly for at least one quarter or semester.

Please note that this position does not ensure future employment with the Seattle City Attorney’s Office.

Job Responsibilities

Infractions Intern Duties (Specialty Courts Unit)

• Represent the City on infractions calendars up to six times per week, with little to no supervision, to include contested hearings (testimonial or nontestimonial direct/cross examinations), mitigations, amendments per negotiations.
• Review and evaluate evidence to determine appropriate negotiations or dispositions.
• Engage in active negotiations with attorneys or pro se defendants.
  
  

Criminal Intern Duties (Trial Team Unit or Domestic Violence Unit)

• Represent the City on pretrial and review calendars up to two times per week, with little to no supervision.
• Research, file, and argue motions on a variety of cases, including Assault and DUI.
• Second-chair jury and bench trials.
• Assist in evidence review.
  
  

Qualifications

Successful candidates must fulfill the licensing requirements outlined in Rule 9 of the Washington State Bar Association by their start date.

WSBA Rule 9 Admissions

• Completion of the second year of a full-time J.D. program by the internship start date.
• Minimum law school GPA of 3.0.
  
  

Additional Information

Application Process– For your application to be accepted, you must:

• Complete the online City of Seattle Application
• (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle/transferjobs)
  
  

• Please attach the following documents to your application (PDF preferred):
• Cover Letter describing your interest in SCAO and how your skills and experience align with the stated responsibilities and qualifications.
• Resume indicating relevant experience and education.
• Writing sample (5-10 pages)
• Law school unofficial transcript (Must maintain a minimum of a 3.0 GPA)
  

Application Submission Guidelines – All applicants are required to apply on or before the closing date indicated on the job posting. Applicant inquiries received via email and websites such as Indeed, etc., will not be considered unless the individual has applied to the available position via the Government Jobs site. Note: The required documents listed in the above "Application Process" section must be attached to the application prior to the job closing date indicated to ensure consideration for the application submitted. Please contact the Office of Human Resources on or before the closing date indicated above at Law_HR@Seattle.gov should you need assistance with the online application process.

Race and Social Justice Initiative – The City of Seattle recognizes every City employee must play a role in ending institutional and structural racism. We seek individuals who will work toward the goals of the Race and Social Justice Initiative.

Compensation – This position offers a pay rate of $32.47 - $32.47/hr.

Benefits – Interns are not eligible for medical, discretionary insurance, retirement benefits, or premium pay. The City of Seattle will reimburse the interns’ Rule 9 application fee with the Washington State Bar Association. The City of Seattle will extend the option of obtaining an ORCA/passport card that can be used for transit/ferry transportation during the internship, car share discounts, and ride matches. Rule 9 Interns will receive paid sick and safe leave (after 90 days of employment).

Workplace Environment – Currently, the Seattle City Attorney's Office has a Flexible Work Arrangements Policy. Employees have the option to work a hybrid schedule (3 days in the office, 2 days remote). This is subject to change as circumstances and business needs dictate.

Background Check Requirements – All positions are security sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the verification of credentials and/or other information required by the municipal corporation’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check in accordance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be given a chance to explain or correct background information and provide verifiable information on good conduct and rehabilitation.

Who may apply – This position is open to all candidates who meet the minimum qualifications.

The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity or expression, family or marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, medical condition, pregnancy, or other protected characteristics. The Seattle City Attorney's Office encourages people of all backgrounds to apply.

Questions? Contact our Human Resources team at LAW_HR@seattle.gov.