Assistant Public Defender

Assistant Public Defender (NS)

The Office of the Public Defender, District 43, which consists of Haywood, Jackson, Swain, Cherokee, Clay, Macon, and Graham counties, is seeking a qualified individual to serve as an Assistant Public Defender. Attorneys will likely be assigned to DWI cases and need to be prepared to represent clients with complicated impaired driving cases; and may be assigned to cover treatment court and other initiatives that may arise to better serve our community. All Assistant Public Defenders must be capable of handling difficult cases and clients, while maintaining positive, professional relationships with co-workers, clients, and the public. Attorneys are expected to visit clients in jail, and prison facilities, and travel outside the office to conduct other investigative procedures. Must have a strong desire and commitment to client advocacy and indigent defense. As public service employees, it is expected that all Assistant Public Defenders will engage in community service and participate in outreach programs relevant to the services we are providing, including volunteer programs which occur during evening hours and weekends. This position will be based in Haywood and Jackson counties. Must have valid North Carolina Driver's License.

Knowledge of: Federal, State, common and constitutional law; judicial procedures and rules of evidence; case, statutory, regulatory and common law; NC General Statutes to defend criminal, and juvenile cases, and legal research.

Skills in: strong communication skills to litigate cases in the courtroom, exceptional legal research and writing skills, interviewing, and organization.

Ability to: analyze facts, laws, rules, regulations, interpretations, and related written documents and apply applicable law to those facts; conduct legal research; plan, develop and execute an effective litigation strategy to achieve desired results; prepare, organize and conduct witness examinations; deliver opening statements, closing arguments, and evidentiary objections; and express complex legal concepts and related facts in a clear and concise manner.

Juris Doctor degree from an ABA accredited law school and an active license to practice law in North Carolina. Applicants awaiting NC Bar Licensure will be considered. Applicants with experience in criminal district and/or criminal superior court trials is helpful but not required.

Attach cover letter and résumé.

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.