Job Title: Deputy Public Defender IV
Job Responsibilities:
The Deputy Public Defender IV operates under the general direction of the Public Defender or Chief Deputy Public Defender. The role involves a variety of professional legal tasks related to criminal defense, civil litigation, investigation, and trial preparation. Key responsibilities include:
- Interviewing and advising defendants or individuals about their constitutional rights and other relevant information related to existing criminal charges or prospective criminal complaints.
- Advising clients on their legal rights.
- Analyzing case material, initiating investigations, and interviewing witnesses, local authorities, and others with information or testimony essential for the development and presentation of the defense.
- Conducting legal research as required.
- Studying, interpreting, and incorporating laws, court decisions, and other legal authorities in the preparation of cases.
- Performing legal research pertinent to the work of the Public Defender's Office.
- Appearing in court and representing defendants at court hearings.
- Conferring with prosecuting staff, probation authorities, and court officials to discuss pleas, modification of charges, presentation, and examination of documents and materials prior to trials.
- Preparing and submitting documents regarding applications for probation, appeals of court findings, writs, and other legal documents on behalf of defendants.
Education and Experience:
The position of Deputy Public Defender IV requires:
- One (1) year of experience as an Attorney III or equivalent.
- Passing the California State Bar and possessing a valid bar license.
- Successful completion and passing of a background investigation at the time of initial hire.
Skills/Abilities:
For the Attorney IV level, the following skills and abilities are required in addition to those at levels I, II, and III:
- Ability to prosecute/defend all felony cases.
- Ability to track and document statistical data.
Knowledge:
For the Attorney IV level, the following knowledge is required in addition to that at levels I, II, and III:
- Understanding of the duties, powers, limitations, and authority of the District Attorney's Office and Public Defender's Office as applicable.
- Knowledge of trials, probation, and sentencing rules.
- Familiarity with specialized statutes and enhancements.
Salary Information:
The salary for the Deputy Public Defender IV position ranges from to hourly.
Additional Information:
This part-time position is classified as extra-help, meaning permanent status may not be obtained. It is subject to overtime, standby, shift, and callback assignments, and is non-benefited except for participation in a 401a program with Nationwide. The recruitment for this position is continuous, but it may close at any time, so candidates are encouraged to apply promptly.
Application and Selection Procedures:
Candidates must submit a comprehensive online application, as resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. The examination process includes an application review and screening, an oral examination, and placement on an eligible list for candidates who pass. The eligible list is effective for six months but may be extended up to eighteen months. Final appointment is conditional upon passing a pre-employment drug screening and a job-related background investigation.
General Information:
Certain positions may require possession or the ability to obtain a valid California Driver’s license or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation to fulfill job-related essential functions.
