Get to know the top legal recruiters serving Spokane, Washington, who are ready to help experienced attorneys find their next opportunity. With the Legal Recruiter Directory, you’ll find a complete list of boutique legal recruiting firms in Spokane, along with contact details for larger regional players familiar with the local market.
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Job Opportunities
Spokane, Washington, offers a dynamic legal landscape for attorneys seeking diverse opportunities. With a population of approximately 229,000, Spokane serves as the economic and cultural hub of the Inland Northwest. The city’s legal market encompasses various practice areas, including family law, corporate law, and civil litigation, providing a solid foundation for both new and experienced attorneys.
While Spokane’s legal community is robust, many legal professionals also explore opportunities in nearby Seattle, which hosts a larger concentration of law firms and corporate legal departments. This proximity allows Spokane-based attorneys to engage with a broader legal network and access a wider array of cases and clients.
The average annual salary for attorneys in Spokane is approximately $101,890, reflecting the city’s competitive compensation in the legal sector.
For networking and professional development, the Spokane County Bar Association (SCBA) offers a range of resources, including continuing legal education, pro bono opportunities, and social events. Additionally, the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) provides statewide support and resources for legal professionals.
Spokane’s blend of professional opportunities, competitive salaries, and supportive legal organizations makes it an attractive location for attorneys aiming to advance their careers in a vibrant community.
Requirements to Practice Law
To practice law in Spokane, attorneys must meet the licensing requirements set by the Washington State Bar Association (WSBA), which includes traditional and alternative pathways to bar admission.
- Earn a J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school: Complete a Juris Doctor program at an American Bar Association-approved institution.
- Pass the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE): Achieve a minimum score of 270 on the UBE, which includes the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), Multistate Essay Examination (MEE), and Multistate Performance Test (MPT).
- Pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE): Obtain a scaled score of at least 85 on the MPRE.
- Complete the Washington Law Component (WLC): Finish the mandatory online course covering Washington-specific law prior to admission.
- Undergo a Character and Fitness Evaluation: Submit to a background check and receive approval from the WSBA.
- Take the Oath of Admission: Be sworn in either during a scheduled Supreme Court ceremony or via affidavit before an authorized judicial official.
- Alternative Pathways: As of March 2024, Washington offers additional routes to licensure:
- Law Clerk Program (APR 6): Complete a four-year apprenticeship under a qualified attorney or judge, including monthly examinations and evaluations.
- Apprenticeship Portfolio Pathway: Engage in a six-month apprenticeship with an experienced lawyer, culminating in a portfolio assessment.
- Skills Coursework and Legal Work: Complete 12 credits of skills-based coursework and 500 hours of hands-on legal work, followed by a portfolio evaluation.
- Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Once licensed, Washington attorneys must complete 45 hours of CLE every three years, including at least 6 hours in ethics.
Why Spokane
Spokane, Washington, offers a unique blend of affordability, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich cultural attractions, making it an appealing destination for legal professionals.
Spokane’s cost of living is approximately 28% lower than the Washington state average and about 4% below the national average. Housing costs are notably affordable, with expenses around 16% less than the U.S. average, providing an attractive option for those seeking a balance between professional opportunities and quality of life.
The city boasts a variety of neighborhoods catering to diverse preferences. Browne’s Addition is known for its historic charm and vibrant arts scene. South Hill offers tree-lined streets and proximity to parks, making it ideal for families. Downtown Spokane provides urban living with easy access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Spokane is rich in cultural and recreational attractions. Riverfront Park, located in the heart of downtown, features the Spokane Falls, a historic carousel, and the Numerica SkyRide. Manito Park offers beautifully manicured gardens and walking trails. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, contributing to its lively community atmosphere.
Spokane experiences a four-season climate with warm summers and cold winters. Summers are typically dry and sunny, with average highs in the 80s°F, while winters bring snowfall and average highs in the 30s°F. This climate supports a range of outdoor activities year-round, from hiking and biking in the warmer months to skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
With its affordable living, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural offerings, Spokane presents a compelling option for legal professionals seeking both career growth and a high quality of life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Spokane maintains a robust legal talent pool, bolstered by local institutions like Gonzaga University School of Law, which produces a steady stream of qualified graduates. The city’s affordable living costs and quality of life attract both new and experienced attorneys, contributing to a competitive and diverse legal community.
Yes, there is consistent demand for legal professionals in Spokane. The city’s economic growth, particularly in sectors like healthcare, technology, and real estate, drives the need for legal expertise in areas such as corporate law, litigation, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, government and public interest roles remain vital components of the local legal landscape.
The outlook for Spokane’s legal market is positive. Continued economic development and population growth are expected to sustain and potentially increase the demand for legal services. Emerging industries and ongoing infrastructure projects may also create new opportunities for legal practitioners in the region.
Surrounding cities such as Seattle, Portland, and Boise offer additional opportunities for legal professionals. Seattle, in particular, has a rapidly expanding legal market, especially in healthcare and technology law. Portland and Boise also present growing markets with unique legal needs, providing alternatives for those seeking different practice environments.
Employers seeking to recruit top legal talent might consider nearby metropolitan areas like Seattle, Portland, and Boise. These cities have larger legal markets and a higher concentration of specialized attorneys. Additionally, tapping into alumni networks from regional law schools and participating in legal conferences can help identify and attract qualified candidates to Spokane.
