ATTORNEY V. PUBLIC DEFENDER

Job Description

Supervises all levels public defenders in all aspects of assigned cases. Exercises authority to make tactical and legal decisions in connection with assigned felony cases or defends the more complex general or special category felony cases in assigned courts. Performs case evaluation, preparation, and management; represents the client in pre-trial and evidentiary hearings and jury/court trials; and ensures effective communication with judges, prosecuting attorneys, court personnel, family members, witnesses and other interested parties. Conducts legal research; drafting legal documents; and interpreting laws, rules and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Supervises, evaluates and trains staff.
• Resolves disputes between the court, prosecuting attorneys, and staff. Determines appropriate action to be taken for unusual or extremely serious or complex situations.
• Evaluates appointed case or lawsuit by: reviewing documentation; conducting necessary legal research on applicable law; interviewing clients, witnesses or persons with knowledge of the case; reviewing and gathering evidence; preparing investigative requests; and determining most appropriate action(s) to be taken.
• Interviews clients; discusses facts of case, potential defenses and applicable laws and procedures.
• Explains legal process to potential witnesses and prepares witnesses for court testimony and ensures client is informed on status of case.
• Drafts, files and responds to necessary motions, briefs, or other legal documents for trial and/or hearing.
• Gathers, prepares, reviews and presents evidence, exhibits, and related material for trial or hearing.
• Represents the client in trial and at all applicable hearings by: conducting jury selection; presenting opening statements; conducting direct and cross-examinations of witnesses; and presenting closing arguments.
• Participates in plea-bargain negotiations; prepares necessary legal documents and ensures necessary signatures are secured and documents filed as required.
• Documents client files, prepares trial notebook, and maintains statistical information regarding caseload dispositions.
• Conducts presentations at conferences and seminars; instructs law enforcement and other criminal justice personnel in all legal aspects of the criminal process; and speaks before community and group citizens.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

Education, Experience and Training:

Graduation from an accredited law school with a license to practice law in the State of Texas. Four (4) years experience practicing law required.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

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.