Assistant Public Defender

The work involves responsibility for assisting in the functions of the Office of Public Defender by representing indigent persons charged with crimes as defined by Section 722 (a) of the County Law as well as indigent individuals entitled to representation in Family and Surrogate Court proceedings, as assigned by the Public Defender.  The work is carried out in accordance with established strict legal procedures and involves assisting the Public Defender by counseling and representing all indigent defendants whose cases have been assigned to him/her at every stage of their proceedings, including, if warranted, the prosecution of any and all appeals.  Work is performed under the general supervision of the Public Defender, who exercises administrative control over the work performed, with considerable leeway allowed to the incumbent for the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the comprehensive defense of indigent persons whose cases have been assigned.  An Assistant Public Defender does related work as required.

• Upon assignment by the Public Defender, represents indigent defendants charged with crimes, defendants charged with misdemeanors and violations entitling a defendant to assignment of counsel, and individuals entitled to representation in Family Court (except infants who are represented by law guardians who are compensated for said representation by the State of New York) and in Surrogate Court proceedings;
• Initiates all proceedings which in his/her judgment are necessary to protect the rights of the accused;
• Searches the law in the preparation of cases;
• Prepares motion papers and all other required legal instruments;
• Prepares correspondence and reports as required;
• Prepares and prosecutes any appeals which are warranted under existing circumstances;
• Confers with the Public Defender on cases whenever necessary;
• Assists in the administration of the office in the absence of the Public Defender; and
• Performs other related duties as required.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Thorough knowledge of New York State Laws including the Penal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, and the Family Court Act; thorough knowledge of trial and court procedures including the rules of evidence; skill in the presentation of a defense before a jury; ability to prepare legal briefs and documents; ability to express thoughts and legal arguments clearly by means of both the written and spoken word; ability to prepare reports; ability to perform legal research and investigative tasks; ability to get along well with others; good address; tact and courtesy; initiative and resourcefulness; good judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.Graduation from an accredited or New York State certified law school.

1. Eligibility for admission to practice as an attorney and counselor at law before the courts of the State of New York at the time of application for appointment.
2. Admission to the Bar of the State of New York at the time of appointment.  
3. Must maintain authorization to practice law in New York State Bar throughout employment

NOTE:  Livingston County residency is not a requirement for this position. However, Livingston County residents will be given preference in the hiring process.

Assistant Public Defender full-time (8 positions), E in County service 
Assistant Public Defenders, C in all other circumstances

Salary : $80,000 - $97,000