Investigative Counsel

Overview

The Washington State Commission on Judicial Conduct (CJC) is seeking an Investigative Counsel to join a small, confidential, independent agency. The CJC investigates ethics complaints against state-level judges, and also investigates allegations of judicial disability. The Commission is constituted of eleven members and eleven alternates, with three membership categories (three judges, two lawyers, six citizen members). The work is conducted by a staff of nine. The recruitment emphasizes equity and inclusion and invites qualified applicants to apply.

Responsibilities

• Performs high volume tasks pursuant to Article IV, Section 31 of the Washington Constitution, RCW 2.64 and 42.52, and the Commission on Judicial Conduct Rules of Procedure.
• Guard the confidentiality of Commission records and proceedings.
• Work independently under the general supervision of the Commission; report to the Executive Director; report results of investigations to the Commission; coordinate work and report progress to Senior Investigative Counsel and Executive Director.
• Receive and screen complaints to determine jurisdiction and whether facts would constitute misconduct or incapacity; refer complainants to other agencies when appropriate.
• Conduct preliminary investigations to evaluate grounds for belief that allegations violate the Code of Judicial Conduct.
• Conduct full investigations, including interviewing witnesses and examining evidence; perform legal research as needed on substantive law and judicial ethics.
• Prepare written reports and present findings to the Commission; draft Statements of Allegations and, when authorized, serve respondents.
• Recommend further action after initial proceedings; assemble documentary evidence and affidavits for the Commission.
• Engage in negotiations for agreed dispositions; draft stipulations and agreements for Commission consideration.
• Assist in preparing Statements of Charges and other supporting documents; assist disciplinary counsel during the fact-finding process; assist other investigators through training or instruction.
• Act as a resource for staff and Commission members regarding procedures and precedents; stay current on developments in judicial ethics law.
• Occasional overnight travel and day trips are required.
• Participate in judicial and public information programs about the Commission's role and procedures; maintain confidentiality of investigative materials.
• Interact effectively with coworkers and Commission members at all levels of experience within the court system; perform other duties as required.

Qualifications

Active member in good standing with the Washington State Bar Association. Disclose any current or past confidential actions by the Bar Association for hiring evaluation purposes.

Washington State judicial system, including trial court procedures, the Code of Judicial Conduct, Article IV, Section 31 of the State Constitution, relevant statutes, Supreme Court Rules and Commission Rules, due process concepts, organization of state government, business English and professional writing.

Maintain effective public relations; maintain confidentiality; use professional judgment; work independently; investigate fairly, discreetly and effectively; make independent justified recommendations; prepare correspondence and reports; assist the public and professionals.

At least five years' litigation experience.

Supplemental Information

Provide a brief letter of interest (no more than two pages) detailing why you are interested, a short resume of relevant qualifications, and three professional references with contact information. The recruitment will remain open until filled but will close no later than October 17, 2025. Onboarding anticipated January 2026.

Email : recruit.investigator@cjc.state.wa.us

Mail : Commission on Judicial Conduct, Attn : Tanya Calahan, PO Box 1817, Olympia, WA 98507

Generous employment benefits package including paid sick leave, vacation, holidays, medical insurance, life insurance, and retirement plan. Washington State offers a competitive benefits package with options to tailor benefits to needs.

The Commission is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation / gender identity, age (40+), disability, veteran or military status, retaliation, or service animal status. Reasonable accommodations available in the application process. Contact information provided above for accessibility needs.

Other

Updated 07-21-2025

Job Details

Additional postings : Assistant Attorney General roles in Yakima, Tacoma, and Seattle, plus related Civil Rights positions; visit the posting to apply. The final note indicates a broader context of career opportunities and that experts contribute insights into articles with AI assistance used in this job posting.

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