Assistant Public Defender

Assistant Public Defender

Performs professional legal work defending indigent clients charged with misdemeanor offenses in City Court including pretrial functions. Advises clients on a wide range of direct and collateral consequences of criminal prosecution.

The Assistant Public Defender position at the City of Tucson's Public Defender's Office advises indigent clients on a wide range of direct and collateral consequences of criminal prosecution and is responsible for all pretrial functions. This position requires court coverage for other attorneys and is occasionally called to court for client assistance.

This position works under the supervision of the Supervising Public Defender. This position does not supervise.

• Prepares cases for trial by conducting client interviews (in-person, virtual, telephonic, and jail). Reviews and evaluates evidence. Researches legal issues and specific case issues. Drafts legal documents. Conducts witness interviews. Participates in plea negotiations and settlement conferences. Prepares evidence and documents to present for trial per city and state guidelines. Provides case staffing/consulting. Conducts crime scene investigations and prepares exhibits such as photos, diagrams, and documents.
• Defends clients in City Court by attending hearings, in both virtual and in-person environment, arguing relevant issues and case law, presenting mitigating factors, conducting direct and cross examination of witnesses, making objections, introducing evidence. Conducts legal hearings, evidentiary hearings, jury and/or bench trials. Presents documentation and other relevant information to appropriate individuals including prosecutors (for plea negotiations) and supervisors (for case review).
• Leads paraprofessionals, assistants, seasonal employees, law students/interns, volunteers, or temporary employees on requests related to client representation.
• Other duties and tasks as assigned under the direction of the supervisor/administration.

Minimum Qualifications: Juris Doctorate and under one (1) year of related experience. One year of experience in criminal litigation. Member of the Arizona State Bar Association in good standing. Preferred Qualifications: Bilingual – English/Spanish Experience in Criminal Law Trial experience and or Immigration experience preferred but not mandatory.

Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.