Deputy/Senior Deputy State's Attorney

Job Description

The Deputy/Senior Deputy State’s Attorney performs routine professional legal work in the prosecution of civil and criminal crimes, juvenile crimes, and juvenile abuse and neglect cases in Lincoln County. Actual responsibilities of the Deputy/Senior Deputy State’s Attorney vary dependent upon vacant position but may include reviewing offenses and evidence to make determination on charges and prosecuting violations of state law, reviewing requests for petitions and determining appropriate course of action, communicating with victims, law enforcement officials, and other individuals about cases, making recommendations for child custody and parental rights, and attending legal proceedings.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from a college of law, attainment of a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school, and admission by the Supreme Court of South Dakota to practice law in the state of South Dakota or be licensed to practice law in any other state and able to take the next available South Dakota bar examination or be a recent or imminent law school graduate, eligible to sit for the next available South Dakota bar examination. Comparable combination of education and experience may be considered. Consideration for appointment of Senior Deputy State’s Attorney requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience and are able to take on a felony caseload.

Preferred Qualifications

Currently licensed to practice law in South Dakota. Strong oral argument skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge of civil and criminal law and methods and practices of pleadings, court procedures and rules of evidence, principles, methods, materials, and practices utilized in legal research, and general law and established precedents. Ability to prosecute cases. Ability to work under strict time constraints. Ability to speak and write effectively in the preparation and presentation of legal matters. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, other agencies, and the public. Ability to maintain professional appearance and demeanor.