Description:
Summary:The Chief Deputy District Attorney is responsible for the prosecution of the majority of the more serious felony level offenses and assists in the administration of the department, assists in the training of new Deputy District Attorneys, supervises other Deputy District Attorneys, and has the full responsibility to run the office in the absence of the District Attorney.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This position works under the direct supervision of the District Attorney and exercises supervision over the Deputy District Attorneys and office staff. The Chief Deputy manages the largest percentage of felony files, prosecutes criminal offenses from submission of reports by police to final resolution; coordinates case assignments; advises and assists Deputy District Attorneys.
Essential Duties:
- Review police investigation reports, request follow up investigation as needed, interview victim and witnesses correlate facts to appropriate law violations, make charging decisions based on probable cause and interests of justice.
- Prepare and present felony cases to Grand Jury on a weekly basis, including preparation of witnesses, explanation of law and charges, and presentation of evidence to Grand Jury.
- Evaluate strength of evidence and facts of the case, consult with victim and police, present plea resolution to defense attorney, where appropriate.
- Research law, draft legal memorandum, present testimony and evidence to the court, and argue case in court.
- Work with police to complete thorough investigation, evaluate and present necessary evidence and witnesses in court, research and argue legal issues, select jury, argue to jury to convince to convict defendant, advise victim at all stages as to proceedings.
- Respond to crime scene regardless when necessary, advise police on investigation and legal issues, evaluate evidence with medical examiner if death is involved, attend autopsy, and coordinate crime lab service.
- On-call availability 24 hours a day/7days a week. Update police on changes in law, present information to police through one-to-one or as a group on various legal issues regarding work up of case and legal issues pertaining to investigation.
- Review junior attorneys' work, consult on case preparation, assist with trial matters when necessary and evaluate performance.
- Review and assist preparation of case documents and organization of files generally. Be available for questions and provide guidance where needed.
- Be available to respond to questions and provide information to community members and media regarding general information as to case status, resolution and procedures.
- Attend continuing education, training seminars and conferences as required or directed.
- Prepare and assist in preparation of affidavits, search and arrest warrants, legal memorandum, court orders, and other related legal documents for filing in court.
- Regular attendance is an essential function of the position.
- Performs other duties as assigned that support the overall objective of the position.
Qualifications:
Knowledge and Skills:
Thorough knowledge of criminal law and the practices and procedures of criminal prosecution; thorough knowledge of courtroom and trial procedures. Excellent public speaking and oral argument skills; legal writing and research, community outreach, administrative and supervisory skills. Superior communication and leadership skills, effective oral advocacy and management skills, computer skills, etc. Effective public presence and appearance.
Abilities:
Sound ability for critical legal reasoning and analysis. Ability to deal with stress and prioritize tasks. Ability to work with other individuals and agencies. Ability to train others, review the work of others and conduct performance interviews.
Physical Abilities:
Ability to stand, speak and listen effectively for long periods of time. Ability to sit at a computer using rapid hand, arm and finger movement.
Education and Experience:
A four-year college degree and a Law Degree from an accredited law school. Minimum of five years trial advocacy experience or equivalent.
Licenses and Certificates:
Oregon State Bar License and Admission to Practice Law in Oregon. A valid Oregon Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.