What are the responsibilities and job description for the ATTORNEY IV.PUBLIC DEFENDER position at Dallas County?
Job Description
Provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony, family, juvenile or mental health cases. Such services include case evaluation, legal advice, plea offers and representing clients in jury trials, non-jury hearings, plea negotiations and dismissals. Conducts legal research, drafts legal documents and interprets laws, rules and regulations. Receives level of oversight, training, and supervision based on experience and expertise in assigned area.
Management Scope: Assists in training Attorney I, II and III positions.
Responsibilities
Education, Experience and Training:
Graduation from an accredited law school with a license to practice law in the State of Texas. Two (2) years (6) months experience practicing law required.
Special Requirements
None.
Disclaimers
This is an “at will” position with no civil service or other appellate rights. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Physical/Environmental Requirements
Standard office environment.
About Us
Established in 1846, Dallas County is committed to serving the community through innovation, transparency, and efficiency. As the second largest county in Texas, we provide a wide range of services to support the safety, health, and well-being of our residents. From public safety and justice to health services and infrastructure, our team is dedicated to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community. With a focus on operational excellence and a commitment to continuous improvement, Dallas County works to deliver the highest quality services that enhance the lives of all who live, work, and visit here.
Provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony, family, juvenile or mental health cases. Such services include case evaluation, legal advice, plea offers and representing clients in jury trials, non-jury hearings, plea negotiations and dismissals. Conducts legal research, drafts legal documents and interprets laws, rules and regulations. Receives level of oversight, training, and supervision based on experience and expertise in assigned area.
Management Scope: Assists in training Attorney I, II and III positions.
Responsibilities
- Conducts jury trials, trials before the court and contested matters before the court. 20 E
- Prepares and/or drafts legal documents, including plea papers, motions, briefs and pleadings. Research applicable statutes and case law.
- Analyzes pending charges and develops defenses.
- Negotiates plea bargain recommendations with the State.
- Interviews clients and potential witnesses, discusses facts and applicable law with clients.
- Reviews evidence and inspects crime scenes, prepares investigative requests and makes home visits.
- Documents client files, prepares trial notebooks and maintains statistical information regarding caseload and dispositions.
- Assists felony and misdemeanor public defenders as needed.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Education, Experience and Training:
Graduation from an accredited law school with a license to practice law in the State of Texas. Two (2) years (6) months experience practicing law required.
Special Requirements
None.
Disclaimers
This is an “at will” position with no civil service or other appellate rights. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Physical/Environmental Requirements
Standard office environment.
About Us
Established in 1846, Dallas County is committed to serving the community through innovation, transparency, and efficiency. As the second largest county in Texas, we provide a wide range of services to support the safety, health, and well-being of our residents. From public safety and justice to health services and infrastructure, our team is dedicated to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community. With a focus on operational excellence and a commitment to continuous improvement, Dallas County works to deliver the highest quality services that enhance the lives of all who live, work, and visit here.
