Staff Attorney

Definition/Description This is the advanced journey level position of the Attorney series. This class is distinguished from the lower level Research Attorney class in that it performs more complex legal research work demanding a higher degree of resourcefulness. In addition, positions in this class are not necessarily dedicated to legal research and require a broader knowledge of various areas of the Court, and may be assigned supervisory responsibilities. Position responsibilities vary with assignments. This recruitment will lead to establishing an eligibility list for Regular Full-Time, Extra Help, and Limited Term opportunities at the court. Limited Term – Individual is hired for a specific term subject to an extension at the end of the term at the Court’s discretion. Extra Help – Positions are used by the Court to handle peak workload and vacancies. These positions are not eligible for most Court benefits - please review the benefits tab for more information. Regular Full-Time – Individual is hired into a permanent position. Typical Tasks/Representative Duties Researches legal questions and prepares memoranda, documents, and summaries of alternatives for the judge's consideration; Analyzes briefs, petitions, motions, and other pertinent documents filed on a particular case in order to determine factual accuracy, completeness, and complexity of issues raised; Prepares written statement of facts pursuant to rules of court; drafts conference memoranda and opinions as requested by the Court; Conducts legal research as requested by the Court; reviews appealed cases; Researches pertinent issues and law; and prepares preliminary opinions for the Court's consideration; Confers with judges, attorneys, and the public with respect to procedural and substantive legal issues and requirements of individual cases; Confers with the assigned Judge regarding assignments and calendars; Writes proposed decision on matters currently before the Court; Processes petitions re habeas corpus; Advise judges on a variety of civil and criminal issues and proceedings; May plan, direct, review work, and schedule assignments of attorneys and other legal staff as directed; Employment Standards/Typical Qualifications An eligible candidate must be an active member of the California State Bar and have a minimum of two years of experience in the full time practice of the area of law for the position to be assigned, i.e. criminal law. The ideal candidate will possess knowledge and abilities consistent with the highest standards of the legal profession, with a strong academic background. Private practice is prohibited during the incumbent's tenure. Submission to a background investigation is required upon conditional offer of employment. Supplemental Information Knowledge of: Legal principles, precedents, and their application; Statutory and constitutional laws of the State of California; Rules of evidence and conduct of proceedings in trial and appellate court of California and the United States and before administrative bodies; Principles of civil, criminal, and/or family law; Principles, methods, materials, and practices of legal research; Process and procedures of various areas of the Court, including procedures, forms and documents used court cases; Principles and practices of supervision; Ability to: Work effectively and communicate with a diverse population of various social and economic backgrounds; Plan and manage the work of attorneys and other legal staff as assigned; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Judicial Officers, Court Staff and public and private agencies; Present statement of fact and law; Argue clearly and logically in written and oral form as required; Work flexible hours including early morning and evening time.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The work environment is generally clean, inside buildings, with limited exposure to dust, fumes, odors, and noise. Incumbents will be working under sometimes difficult and stressful conditions, with frequent deadlines and expectation to produce high quality work under limited time constraints as well as periodic contact with angry and confrontational individuals. The ability to work independently as well as closely with others is required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Specific tasks and duties may vary among assignments; however, the following are considered essential functions expected of the Staff Attorney classification: Frequent and ongoing use of a computer terminal to conduct a variety of the more advanced clerical functions and communications; Periodic, regular, and/or occasional contact with employees in other court divisions, government agencies, the public, and/or vendors with the ability to converse and respond appropriately to inquiries and requests; Periodic to regular lifting, walking, and carrying of files, documents, and other court related materials. Incumbents must have the ability to lift and carry up to 10 lbs; Work with time constraints and under pressure in some situations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Strength, dexterity, and coordination and/or ability to use a computer keyboard and read a video display terminal on a regular basis; Ability to listen to verbal requests from the public and court staff, then respond appropriately; Dexterity and coordination to handle files and single pieces of paper, occasional lifting of objects weighing up to 10 lbs, such as files, stacks of paper, reference books, and other materials; Frequent need to reach for items above and below desk level, sometimes with the assistance of a ladder or step-stool; Standing and sitting for long periods of time is periodically required.

EXAMINATION:

A screening panel will be convened to select those applicants deemed most qualified to participate in an interview. The process will include application appraisal and interview.

BENEFITS:

The Court offered benefits package includes a choice of health, dental and vision plan, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) as permitted by law, life insurance, paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. The Court is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Superior Court, County of Santa Clara