Defense Counsel (Claremore)

Job Description The Oklahoma Indigent Defense System (OIDS) is the statewide public defender agency which provides legal representation to indigent clients throughout the State of Oklahoma, with the exception of Oklahoma and Tulsa counties. OIDS is currently seeking a full‑time Defense Counsel in our Non‑Capital Trial Division, Claremore office. Basic Purpose Provide legal representation in non‑capital cases, within the bounds and forums provided by law, in all phases of assigned cases. Defense Counsel represent indigent individuals in state court at the trial level in felony, misdemeanor, juvenile delinquency, traffic and wildlife cases; counsel is also responsible for providing clients with competent legal advice and zealous advocacy at every phase of the criminal trial process. Typical Functions Perform case management activities, including maintaining complete and accurate files of all pleadings and orders. Communicate with client on all aspects of the case, including plea negotiations and post‑judgement proceedings, according to agency policy and standards to ensure client can make informed decisions regarding legal representation. Communicate with client’s friends and family to obtain pertinent information without disclosing privileged communication or confidential information. Conduct independent and expeditious investigations relating to the client’s guilt or innocence and potential sentences. Collect and maintain evidence acquired through the investigation per established standards and laws. Prepare for trial by filing pretrial motions; develop plea negotiation strategy based on jurisdictional practices and policies and with client’s input; secure assistance from experts; and formulate a defense theory based on information produced through the investigation. Conduct ongoing legal research to identify new issues and prepare for briefing of argument on motions. Prepare for jury selection by considering legal challenges to selection procedure and developing questions and challenges to determine if the potential juror is suitable. Preserve legal error for appellate review on all applicable grounds. Serve as Co‑Counsel as assigned. Provide consultation, advice, assistance, and support to other attorneys and staff. Perform administrative duties when asked. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies Knowledge of applicable state and federal laws; applicable regulations for non‑capital trials; constitutional law and the Oklahoma constitution; agency policies and procedures; trial and hearing procedures; rules of evidence; methods and techniques for conducting legal research and writing. Skills include critical thinking, conducting legal research, written and oral communication, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel), attention to detail, and sound judgment and decision making. Abilities include presenting statements of fact and law; clearly and logically articulating position in written and oral form; analyzing, interpreting, and applying various laws, rules, regulations, agency policies, and procedures; directing and/or performing independent and difficult research; applying legal principles and precedents to complex legal or factual problems; conducting legal research on Westlaw, Lexis/Nexis, the Oklahoma State Court Network, and printed or internet‑based legal resources; meeting timelines while following Oklahoma statutes; and representing the agency in a professional manner. Education and Experience Applicants should possess a Juris Doctorate degree, active membership and good standing with the State Bar of Oklahoma, or eligibility for admission. Alternatively, applicants may be scheduled to take the Oklahoma Bar Exam. Special Requirements Must abide by the Oklahoma Rules of Professional Conduct. Applicants must be willing and able to fulfill all job‑related travel normally associated with this position. Benefit Highlights Generous state‑paid benefit allowance to help cover insurance premiums. Wide choice of insurance plans with no pre‑existing condition exclusions or limitations. Life/Supplemental Life/Dependent Life/Disability insurance plans. Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses or dependent care. Employee assistance program and health/fitness programs. 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave the first year for full‑time employees (amounts increase with years of service). 11 paid holidays. Retirement Savings Plan with a generous match. Longevity Bonus for years of service. Equal Opportunity Employment The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr