Job Title: Deputy Public Defender II (Part-Time Only)
Job Responsibilities:
The Deputy Public Defender II operates under the direction of the Public Defender or Chief Deputy Public Defender, performing a variety of professional legal tasks in the realms of criminal defense, civil litigation, investigation, and trial preparation. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Interviewing and advising defendants on their constitutional rights and other relevant information pertaining to criminal charges or prospective complaints.
- Advising clients on their legal rights.
- Analyzing case materials, initiating investigations, and interviewing witnesses, local authorities, and other individuals with information essential to case development and defense presentation.
- Conducting legal research as needed.
- Studying, interpreting, and incorporating laws, court decisions, and legal authorities in case preparation.
- Representing defendants in court hearings.
- Conferencing with prosecuting staff, probation authorities, and court officials to discuss pleas, modification of charges, and presentation and examination of documents and material before trials.
- Preparing and submitting documents such as applications for probation, appeals of court findings, writs, and other legal documents on behalf of defendants.
Education and Experience:
For the position of Attorney II, candidates must meet the following qualifications:
- A minimum of six months of experience as an Attorney I or three years of experience in the general practice of law, which may substitute for six months of criminal law experience.
- Passing the California State Bar and holding a valid bar license.
- Possession and maintenance of a valid California Driver's License.
- Completion and passing of a background investigation at the time of initial hire.
Skills/Abilities:
Candidates for the Attorney II position must demonstrate skills and abilities including:
- Evaluating requests for the issuance of criminal charges.
- Evaluating cases to determine settlement parameters.
- Presenting legal motions in court clearly and logically.
- Reviewing charging documents for accuracy.
- Demonstrating a working knowledge of applicable code sections such as the Wel. & Inst. Code, Code of Civil Procedure, Civil Code, and the Evidence Code.
- Determining case facts and reviewing pleadings for accuracy and sufficiency.
- Analyzing facts and law to determine appropriateness of criminal actions.
- Appearing at pre-trial and post-trial hearings.
- Providing ongoing direction to support staff.
- Office computer efficiency and basic computing skills for functioning in an automated environment.
- Conducting basic legal research and writing, organizing, and handling multiple cases.
Knowledge:
In addition to the knowledge required at level I, candidates for Attorney II should have:
- Knowledge of probation department policy and procedures related to misdemeanor cases.
- Knowledge of trial procedures and rules of evidence.
- Familiarity with legal research methods.
Salary Information:
The position offers a salary range from to hourly.
Application and Selection Procedures:
Applications must be submitted online by 5:00 . on the final filing date. The application process involves:
- Application Review and Screening: Applications are screened based on provided information. Incomplete applications or those lacking relevant qualifications will not proceed.
- Oral Examination: Candidates are invited to a panel interview evaluated by subject matter experts.
- Eligible Lists: Successful candidates are placed on an eligible list effective for six months, extendable up to eighteen months.
General Information:
Final appointment is contingent upon passing a County-paid pre-employment drug screening and a job-related background investigation. Some positions may require a valid California Driver's License or an alternative method of transportation to fulfill job-related essential functions. The organization promotes the health of its workforce, and more information is available on their wellness website.
