Description:
A Government Entity has an opening for an Assistant Public Defender-Felony Trial Division. The Assistant Public Defender represents clients of the Public Defender's Office in felony cases.Duties and Responsibilities:
- Researches, analyzes and interprets issues of law.
- Conducts legal research and prepares memoranda, motions, and other pleadings subject to review.
- Reviews drafts of pleadings, motions, and memoranda prepared by legal staff.
- Assigns legal personnel in preparation of case files, or to collect data, or evidence for case work.
- Participates with other attorneys in the formulation of legal strategies for particular clients.
- Renders legal advice to clients with senior attorneys through corresponding, and meets with clients to explain legal strategies, and to obtain client's input and approval.
- Makes contact with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement as required, including regular trips to the jails and prisons.
- Assists county public defenders in researching legal issues, and in preparing memoranda, pleadings and motions.
- Answers inquiries from indigent clients (e.g. answers telephone calls and correspondence; initiates correspondence; reviews and researches claims; initiates legal petitions when appropriate; prepares pleadings and memoranda; appears in court on behalf of indigent clients)
- Prepares cases for trial and independently tries cases, examines witnesses, presents legal arguments and evidence, conducts pre-trial conferences, hearings, and plea negotiations, and conducts appeals and other post-convictions matters.
- Assures zealous representation.
Requirements:
Education and Licensure:
- Juris Doctorate degree.
- Current license to practice law with the State Bar of Texas.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Good written and oral communications skills.
- Effective organizational and time management skills.
- Must possess the skill to manage a demanding caseload of cases assigned from criminal courts.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
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:
- Previous criminal defense and trial experience is preferred.
- Bilingual in English/Spanish.
