Land Use Associate Attorney

Job Title: Land Use Associate Attorney

Job Overview: A law firm in Seattle, WA, is seeking a Land Use Associate Attorney with a minimum of 5+ years of experience in interpreting, ensuring compliance with, and defending actions under Washington State's planning and land use statutes. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience with state regulations governing development, including the Growth Management Act (GMA), Planning Enabling Act, Local Project Review Statute (ch. 36.70B RCW), Shoreline Management Act (SMA), and environmental review under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). Strong representation skills are preferred in local and state administrative proceedings and related judicial appeals.

Duties:

• Interpret and apply Washington State's planning and land use statutes, including the GMA, Planning Enabling Act, Local Project Review Statute (ch. 36.70B RCW), SMA, and SEPA.
• Represent clients in local and state administrative proceedings, including appearances before Hearing Examiners, City and County Councils, Shorelines Hearings Board, Pollution Control Hearings Board, Growth Management Hearings Board, and related judicial appeals.
• Provide legal counsel on land use matters to clients, including advising on regulatory compliance, permitting processes, and zoning issues.
• Draft legal documents, including petitions, briefs, motions, and other court filings related to land use litigation and administrative proceedings.
• Conduct legal research to support case strategies and advise clients on potential risks and outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders, including government agencies and community organizations, to achieve clients' land use objectives.

Requirements:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Washington State Bar or eligibility for admission via reciprocity.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience practicing land use law in Washington State.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting and applying Washington State's planning and land use statutes, including the GMA, Planning Enabling Act, Local Project Review Statute (ch. 36.70B RCW), SMA, and SEPA.
• Proven track record of representing clients in local and state administrative proceedings, including before Hearing Examiners, City and County Councils, Shorelines Hearings Board, Pollution Control Hearings Board, and Growth Management Hearings Board.
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills, with experience drafting legal documents and presenting arguments in court.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide strategic advice to clients.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment.

Education and Certifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Washington State Bar or eligibility for admission via reciprocity.

Skills:

• Proficiency in interpreting and applying land use statutes and regulations.
• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Excellent oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to analyze complex legal issues.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Collaborative and team-oriented approach to work.

Benefits Offered: The firm offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 401k profit-sharing plan; and employee wellness opportunities.

This is an innovative and highly responsive law firm concentrating in land use, environmental, municipal and water law, real estate transactions, and civil litigation.