Closing Date: 30th November, 2025

Description:

Position Description:
This position is for an an Assistant Public Defender who will primarily work on motions for new trial. Zealous representation of clients from the date of appointment through the motion for new trial period.

Duties and Responsibilities:

This includes investigation, drafting, and court hearings on the motion for new trial.
The assistant will stay in contact with the client and client's family.
The APD will track performed work and time spent per client in database.
The assistant will be expected to be current on all case law.
Once the MNT period has expired, or the decision not to file has been determined, will assist in preparing the appeal to transfer to the briefing APD.
Assist briefing APD's, if available, in the courtroom.
There is also the possibility of handling cases on direct appeal and discretionary review stages of the appellate process.
This includes carefully reviewing appellate records and writing a brief encompassing all cognizable issues.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements:
Education and Licensure:
Licensed or have ability to be licensed to practice law in the State of Texas.

Note: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

Preferences:

Have experience with motions for new trial and briefs and petitions for discretionary review.
Speak Spanish.
Former clerking experience in an appellate court.

General Information:
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

Regular Full-time
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Salary:

Depends on Qualifications
Based on 26 Pay Periods

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.