Assistant Public Defender

Definition and Class Characteristics The Public Defender’s Office is a dynamic and innovative team that is seeking someone to join us on our Constitutionally mandated mission! We are hiring one Attorney at a level I, II, or III to defend individuals charged with crimes. Confidentiality and integrity to our clients are critical to this job. Every day will be different and will provide an opportunity to do good for our community. The Attorney classification has three levels which are assigned at the department director's discretion in accordance with budget provisions, organizational needs, the individual attorney's expertise and skill, and the experience requirements for the respective levels. Assignments range from requiring minimal expertise and experience to the prosecution or defense of the most difficult, complex and sensitive criminal trial cases requiring highly advanced legal knowledge, skill and experience. Some assignments may involve supervising the activities of a satellite office. The amount and type of supervision provided to incumbents in this class ranges from close to minimal, depending on each attorney's level and their degree of proficiency in the practice of law. Examples of Duties Attend meetings including interviews with complainants, victims, witnesses and clients. Analyze and prepare legal documents and instruments. Preparing and presenting clear and logical oral and written statements of fact, law and argument Prepare and participate in pleadings, arraignments, pre-trial agreements, motions, trials, responsive declarations, detention or asset seizure hearings, negotiate with opposing counsel and the courts, and the selection of jurors. Litigate criminal and appropriate civil cases in court. Perform legal research and review law, regulations and judicial decisions. Conducts legal related training for officers, participate in continuing education, and may supervise subordinate staff. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Education and Experience Required Attorney I candidates are graduates from an accredited law school and must have active membership in the California State Bar prior to working for Nevada County. Attorney II candidates meet the criteria for Attorney I and have the equivalent to eighteen months of experience practicing criminal law. Attorney III candidates meet the criteria for Attorney I and have the equivalent to thirty-six months of experience practicing criminal law. This is a temporary and part-time position working an average of 20 hours but not more than 29 hours per week, for a maximum of 960 hours per fiscal year. Temporary employees earn sick leave but are not eligible for other vacation or holiday pay, or for medical, dental, vision benefits, or CalPERS. Why Nevada County? Our leadership values employee development and engagement, promotes open and transparent communication, sets us up to be a high-performing organization, and recognizes our contributions. Our leadership connects with the community, listens to them, and provides important programming to keep us safe and healthy. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. Read the full job description here. #J-18808-Ljbffr