Staff News:
Cynthia Simmons Retires After 20 Years of Outstanding Commitment and Service
Cynthia Simmons, our Supervisory Administrative Assistant/Operations, retired after 20 years of service with our office. Cynthia started with our office in 1998 as a receptionist. Following her promotion to panel assistant, she assisted in the development of the office’s new CJA Panel Attorney Program. Her success in this area led to a career in administration.
During her administrative tenure, Cynthia worked on a myriad of projects. Her diligence, versatility, and skill at managing a wide variety of tasks was instrumental in the daily operations of our organization. She located office space and orchestrated moving both our Seattle and Tacoma offices. Cynthia worked on the roll-out of two different accounting and case management systems, and was a key player in the establishment of our Continuity of Operations Plan.
Even during her last year with the office, Cynthia was quick to volunteer for additional duties and responsibilities. Before leaving, she assisted in the procurement and roll-out of our new phone system while also coordinating a large excess property acquisition. Her ability to recognize an opportunity and act quickly resulted in our being better equipped to represent those we serve – our clients. Cynthia was passionate about the mission of our office and that was reflected in her going above and beyond. In addition to her many other duties, Cynthia supervised our Operations team. Under her leadership, they have developed into an amazing team and they are now helping us to adjust to Cynthia’s retirement.
Cynthia always had a welcoming smile, funny story, and helping hand to offer. To Cynthia, it was always about putting our clients first even if it meant working creatively to resolve difficult issues. We miss her already and wish her all the best as she embarks on this new adventure.
Alan Zarky's Article in the Washington Criminal Defense Magazine:
Washington Criminal Defense magazine published a brief article by Tacoma Research and Writing Attorney Alan Zarky, giving state practitioners advice on how to preserve issues pertaining to their clients' federal double jeopardy rights. Due to a difference between how the Ninth Circuit and the Washington Supreme Court interpret the Double Jeopardy Clause, this office has had to seek protection from the federal courts for several state defendants, to prevent unconstitutional proceedings that would violate the Clause. The article helps insure that defendants will be in a better posture should they need to take that step.
CJA News:
CJA Panel member Jeff Grant resigned from the panel in November, after accepting employment at the Washington Attorney General's Office. Jeff stated that he was incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have served with the talented and committed staff and lawyers affiliated with CJA.