Assistant Public Defender

Description:

Wayne County is hiring a part-time Assistant Public Defender to represent indigent person charged with crimes for which a sentence of jail time is possible.

An Assistant Public Defender provides every aspect of legal representation to persons charged with a state crime or delinquent act and who, because of indigence, cannot obtain counsel to represent them. Duties include trials and court hearings, appeals in state court and Federal/State Habeas proceedings, post-conviction, witness representation and representation in other matters where representation is constitutionally required under the Public Defender Act of 1968.

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and certificate of good standing with the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania online, via email to JLANGTON@WayneCountyPA.gov or in person at the Public Defender Office in the Wayne County Courthouse, 925 Court St., Honesdale, PA 18431.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctorate degree and member of the bar in good standing with the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania
• Experience in Criminal Law with Trial experience
• Proficiency in reading, analyzing, and interpreting legal documents
• Proficiency with defining legal problems, collecting data, establishing facts, and drawing valid conclusions
• Skills in Legal research and writing
• Proficiency in effectively presenting information and responding to questions from attorneys and judges
• Compliance with continuing education requirements in order to maintain an active license
• Moderate computer skills

Special Requirements:

• Represent indigent persons charged with crimes for which a sentence of jail time is possible. Provides effective representation to clients who are frequently illiterate, mentally ill, suffering from addiction, uneducated, or uncooperative, while simultaneously managing a large caseload.
• Represent juveniles in juvenile delinquency proceedings
• Represent individuals who have been involuntary committed to mental health institutions
• May handle cases involving post-sentence motions, Supreme Court appeals, and Post-Conviction relief
• Works closely with clients, correctional facilities, investigators, law enforcement personnel, medical personnel, prosecutors, social services agencies, and witnesses in order to determine appropriate actions.
• Meets with clients when arrested and obtains their history to make bond arguments to the Court. Maintains working relationships with clients in person, by phone, and mail
• Prepares a wide range of documents associated with representation
• Keeps abreast of developments in the law; attends training sessions; models' examples of continuous learning to department personnel
• Works in Courthouse or outlying locations. Maintains consistent, regular presence at worksite(s)
• Performs other duties as assigned or directed

Miscellaneous Information:

• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license and reliable transportation
• No pending disciplinary complaint or proceeding against him/her by the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania or the Disciplinary Board of any other jurisdiction
• Clean background check

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