Description:
General Definition:This
is senior trial work defending criminal cases on behalf of the Public
Defender. A position in this class conducts research into, prepares and
presents cases, coordinates administrative activities of the office.
Work may include assigning cases and overseeing progress of lower level
legal staff.
A position in this class differs from those in related classes in the assignment of criminal cases and the responsibility for administrative case management on an office wide basis.
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This classification is distinguished from the position of Attorney 3 by extensive supervisory responsibilities or dealing with complex issues.
Position Duties and Responsibilities: (Illustrative Only)
- Have an advanced understanding of the Crimes Code, Vehicle Code, PA Rules of Evidence, PA Rules of Criminal Procedure;
- Advanced ability to identify legal issues and prepare written briefs in support of the issues;
- Advanced ability to relate to indigent clients;
- Advanced ability to represent indigent defendants at the Magisterial and trial levels including preliminary hearings, probation and parole hearings, pre-trial hearings, bail, trial and post-trial proceedings;
- Advanced ability to represent juveniles in all phases of the juvenile system including detention and adjudication proceedings;
- Advanced ability to meet with clients whether out on bail or in the Lehigh County Jail;
- Follow policy set forth by unit supervisor;
- Advanced
ability to individually represent indigent defendants in serious felony
and juvenile matters, including homicide and death penalty matters;
- Advanced ability to supervise and mentor Attorneys and supervise an assigned courtroom;
- Assign cases to attorneys in assigned courtroom
- Establish and follow office policy with regard to assigned courtrooms and/or unit;
- Ability to make office decisions when the Chief Public Defender is unavailable;
- Recommend disciplinary action against any or all employees in the Office of the Public Defender to the Chief Public Defender;
Requirements/Qualifications:
- Must be an active member of the PA Bar and in good standing;
- Must have a valid driver's license and vehicle;
- Must be able to pass Child Clearance;
- Must be able to work independently;
- Ability to analyze, interpret, and apply legal research methods and techniques and results to case preparation and related legal work.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, representatives of law enforcement, judicial and other government agencies, and members of the bar and the judiciary.