Description:

Job Summary:

The purpose of this position is to represent defendants in Webb County criminal courts, ensure that their rights are respected and goals are addressed, and obtain the best possible outcome for them within an always-evolving criminal legal framework.
Employees work under general supervision, independently developing their cases.

Major Duties:

Interviews and counsels clients in order to understand their goals and advise them on all matters related to their criminal cases.
Reviews and fully understands police reports, law enforcement videos, and all other evidence related to clients' cases in order to identify all potential mitigating and aggravating factors affecting their cases.
Organizes and manages a large, ever-changing caseload in order to meet standards of competent representation and handle hearings effectively.
Negotiates with prosecutors, informing them of specific client or case circumstances and the defense's perspectives, to increase favorable outcomes for our clients.
Researches case law and special legal issues in order to provide competent and vigorous representation for our clients.
Drafts legal motions, requests, and responses and files them in a timely manner.
Remains informed of relevant court decisions, new legislation, policies, procedures, and changes to rules and regulations.
Collaborates and strategizes with other defense attorneys to prepare legal strategy on behalf of our clients.
Represents clients in court through litigation, making appropriate announcements, eliciting testimony, arguing motions, and ensuring the court has relevant information.
Screens clients for potential referrals to specialty courts, social workers, or immigration attorneys.
Performs related work as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of local, state, and federal law.
Knowledge of investigative tools and techniques.
Knowledge of trial proceedings.
Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
Proficient in oral and written communication.
Skill in the completion of legal research.
Skill in producing persuasive legal arguments.
Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions.
Ability to communicate orally and in writing in the Spanish language is preferred but not required.

Minimum Qualifications:

Juris Doctorate Degree.
One year of practicing law or related experience.
Current membership in the State Bar of Texas or eligibile for a temporary bar card while awaiting bar results.

Supplemental Information:
Physical Demands/Work Environment:
Occasionally

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, etc.
Moving oneself in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments, including tight and confined spaces.
Moving to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
Adjusting or moving objects up to 20 pounds in all directions.
Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
Driving a County vehicle or a personal vehicle for County business.
Working in noisy environments.
Light work that includes carrying objects up to 20 pounds.

Constantly

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Communicating with others to exchange information.
Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
Assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.
Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.

Other Requirements/Information

Must possess a valid and current Texas Driver's License with an acceptable driving history. *If the applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver's License must be obtained prior to employment.
The Webb County Drug and Alcohol Policy applies to this position. Pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, and a criminal background check are required.
If applicable, this position may be covered by the Civil Service Rules and Regulations and, therefore, may be subject to those rules and regulations in addition to all other Webb County policies.
Webb County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the County to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.
If applicable, this position may be required to work nights, weekends, holidays, and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of the County. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job.
For positions funded in whole or in part through a grant award, employment is contingent upon the continued availability of grant funds and compliance with the terms, conditions, and limitations of the applicable grant agreement. Compensation, benefits, and leave accruals, including vacation, sick leave, and other paid leave, may be subject to grant-specific requirements, to the extent permitted by applicable law and County policy.
The reduction, expiration, or termination of grant funding may result in the modification or elimination of a grant-funded position.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.