Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Pasadena, CA

Government

Pasadena, CA

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Pasadena, CA

Attorney

Min 1 yrs required

No

Deputy Public Defender II
The candidate performs legal work of average difficulty including handling complex misdemeanor cases and less complex felony cases assigned to the Office. May represent the defense of juvenile clients in adjudication hearings in juvenile court, which are not considered criminal and do not involve a jury. Represents defendants financially unable to retain counsel to assist in their defense in criminal matters, including the trial of felony cases of average difficulty and the more difficult misdemeanor cases. Interviews clients and witnesses, reviews transcripts, requests the investigation of facts and testimony, maintains documentation of clients' files, and confers with law enforcement officers, experts, prosecutors, and other interested parties to determine the most conducive course of action to be taken on behalf of their clients. Advises clients as to their rights, consequences, and the recommended actions to take in court, including the relative merits of trial by judge or jury and the advisability of negotiated pleas. Prepares criminal cases by conducting legal research necessary to prepare appropriate and relevant motions, briefs, and pleadings critical to the representation of clients. Represents the defense in arraignment, conducts evidentiary and other legal hearings, negotiates case settlement, and handles probation and sentencing proceedings in felony and misdemeanor cases. Represents juvenile clients in hearings in the Juvenile Court. Advises clients of their appellate rights and prepares necessary documentation to preserve the rights on appeal.