Deputy Public Defender

Deputy Public Defender – Job Description Position Overview Department: Public Defender Division: Criminal and Civil Status: Full‑time Reports To: Chief Deputy FLSA Status: Exempt Work Schedule: As Assigned To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to carry out each essential function. Delaware County provides reasonable accommodations to qualified employees and applicants with known disabilities unless such accommodations would create undue hardship. The Deputy Public Defender provides legal representation and services to individuals as assigned by the Court and required by statute. Essential Duties Represent indigent persons in criminal and civil proceedings, including bond hearings, juvenile detention hearings, pre‑trial conferences, case preparation, consultations, depositions, sentencing, and trials. Meet and communicate with clients to explain laws, charges, constitutional rights, plea offers, and trial options. Conduct factual and legal research, interview witnesses and clients, take depositions, investigate allegations, and review pleadings and discovery. Assess cases and negotiate plea bargains with the Prosecutor when appropriate. Communicate with local and state Public Defenders regarding legal trends, strategies, and concurrent clients. Review criminal discovery such as police reports, witness statements, body camera footage, and lab results. Review all pleadings filed in cases, including progress and service provider reports. Prepare court pleadings, including researching, writing, proofing, filing, and serving documents. Draft motions, petitions, memorandums, briefs, correspondence, and court documents. Prepare for hearings by sending subpoenas, preparing exhibits, reviewing evidence, gathering information, preparing questions, determining trial strategy, and preparing defendants and witnesses. Present and argue cases before the Court. Research changes and developments in criminal and civil law. Participate in legal proceedings as required. Attend meetings, public speaking engagements, media presentations, and serve on boards or committees as directed. Attend conferences, training, and professional development programs. Respond to emergencies on a 24‑hour basis when required. Perform related duties as assigned or required by law. Job Requirements Doctor of Jurisprudence and license to practice law in Indiana; must be a member in good standing with the Indiana Supreme Court. Ability to complete and maintain continuing legal education credits. Minimum age: 21. Ability to meet all employer hiring requirements, including passing a drug test. Working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. Working knowledge of Delaware County Court procedures and practices. Working knowledge of Public Defender Office goals and operational requirements. Working knowledge of standard office procedures and software. Strong command of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Ability to represent clients fairly amidst controversy or public criticism. Ability to conduct legal research and investigate clients, witnesses, and crime scenes. Ability to maintain organized and accurate files. Ability to operate standard office equipment and a vehicle. Ability to comply with the Indiana Code of Professional Conduct. Ability to work independently and in a team environment under time pressure. Ability to compare, analyze, investigate, evaluate, and act based on data. Ability to plan and organize work projects. Compliance with all employer and department policies, including attendance, safety, drug‑free workplace, and conduct. Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, clients, departments, court personnel, law enforcement, victims, witnesses, and the public. Ability to maintain confidentiality or provide public access to records as required by state law. Ability to understand, retain, and carry out written or oral instructions. Ability to serve the public with diplomacy and respect, including during encounters with irate individuals. Ability to work extended hours, evenings, weekends, and travel overnight when required. Ability to respond to emergencies on a 24‑hour basis. Possession of a valid driver’s license and safe driving record. Difficulty of Work Work involves representing clients and presenting cases in accordance with legal requirements. Duties are highly complex and require careful consideration of circumstances, issues, and multiple interrelated factors. Responsibility The Deputy Public Defender ensures skilled representation for indigent clients, including investigation, preparation, and presentation of defenses. Work is reviewed for compliance with policies and legal requirements. Decisions are often made with minimal direct supervision. Personal Work Relationships The incumbent maintains frequent contact with coworkers, clients, departments, court personnel, Prosecutors, law enforcement, DCS, victims, witnesses, and the public to exchange information, negotiate plea bargains, and argue cases. Reports directly to the Chief Deputy. Physical Effort and Work Environment Work is performed in an office and courtroom environment. Duties may involve sitting or standing for long periods, lifting up to 25 pounds, driving, keyboarding, and clear communication. May encounter violent or irate individuals. Regular extended hours, evenings, weekends, and occasional overnight travel. View Deputy Public Defender Job Description PDF #J-18808-Ljbffr