Misdemeanor Public Defender — Client-Focused Justice Advocate

PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 12TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21009110 The Misdemeanor Attorney provides high-quality, client-centered legal representation to indigent individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses. This role requires strong advocacy skills, a commitment to social justice, and the ability to manage a high-volume caseload while ensuring every client receives zealous representation. Essential Functions Represent clients charged with misdemeanor offenses at all stages of the criminal process, including arraignments, plea negotiations, motions, hearings, trials, and sentencing. Communicate with clients in and out of custody about legal needs and provide them with advice on their legal options in a consistent and timely manner. Conduct client interviews, explain legal rights and options, and maintain ongoing communication to build trust and ensure informed decision‑making. Investigate cases thoroughly, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with investigators, social workers, and support staff. Research and draft legal motions, briefs, and memoranda. Prepare and file all legal documents in a timely manner. Appear in court regularly for arraignments (when necessary), case management/pre‑trial conferences, docket sounding, and other hearings. Attend first appearances when assigned and accurately annotate the docket. Advocate for alternatives to incarceration and connect clients with community‑based resources when appropriate. Collaborate with colleagues in a team‑based environment committed to client-centered representation and systemic reform. Document all contacts (with client, family, experts, etc.) and other important case-related information within the client database system STAC. Answer calls when in the office; if not available, return calls within 72 hours. Communicate with other attorneys on companion cases. Obtain prior approval from supervisor for all due process expenses. Read, review, and stay current on new case law and legislation. Complete case closing forms timely and accurately. Run STAC reports at least quarterly to ensure case open/close status is up-to-date and accurate. Manage a high-volume caseload. Qualifications Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Admission to practice law in the state of Florida. Strong commitment to public defense, social justice, and protecting constitutional rights. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment. Ability to handle a large caseload. Trial experience (jury or bench) preferred, but not required. Cultural humility and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations. Salary commensurate with experience, in accordance with the office’s pay scale. Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid leave. Professional development and training opportunities. Location: BRADENTON, FL, US, 34205 Nearest Major Market: Sarasota Nearest Secondary Market: Bradenton For assistance, call the People First Service Center at View phone number on click.appcast.io Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Eastern time. Pursuant to Florida Law, 110.211 F. S., the State of Florida is an EEO employer. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center View phone number on click.appcast.io). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation. If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS at View phone number on click.appcast.io on how your current benefits may be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement. #J-18808-Ljbffr State-of-Florida