Public Defender I - Texas Indigent Defense Commission Grant - 2

General Summary:

This position provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony and misdemeanor cases. Primary responsibility to handle the misdemeanor case load and potentially felony-level controlled substance cases. Additional responsibilities to assist in felony caseload, trial preparation and trials, as directed.

Essential Duties:
•   Legal Representation: The Public Defender I provides legal representation to clients who are unable to afford private attorneys. This involves handling a caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanors and possibly some lower-level felonies. They conduct client interviews, review evidence, research legal issues, develop defense strategies, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent clients in court proceedings, such as arraignments, hearings, and trials.
•   Case Management: Public defenders are responsible for managing their caseload effectively and that does not exceed the Texas Indigent Defense Commission’s Guidelines for Indigent Defense Caseloads. This includes organizing case files, tracking court dates and deadlines, and ensuring that necessary documentation and evidence are obtained and properly filed. A Public Defender I may work closely with case workers, investigators, and support staff to gather information, coordinate investigations, and prepare for court appearances.
•   Client Communication and Counseling: Public defenders establish and maintain regular communication with their clients. This involves in-person meetings with clients in jail, in the office, and sometimes at other locations. Public defenders explain legal processes, advise clients on their rights and options, and help manage expectations. A Public Defender I may provide counseling to clients, address their concerns, and make referrals to address any emotional or psychological needs related to their legal situation.
•   Legal Research and Writing: A Public Defender I conducts legal research to stay informed about relevant law, regulations, and legal precedents. They analyze cases, statutes, and legal opinions to develop effective defense strategies. Public defenders also draft legal motions, memoranda, and briefs to present arguments and advocate for their clients' rights and interests.
•   Courtroom Advocacy: Public defenders represent clients in court proceedings and advocate for their best interests. A Public Defender I may handle various court appearances, including arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial conferences, motions hearings, and trials. They present evidence, examine witnesses, cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses, make legal arguments, and deliver persuasive oral arguments to support their clients' defense.
•   Negotiations and Plea Bargaining: Public defenders engage in negotiations with prosecutors to reach plea agreements on behalf of their clients. A Public Defender I assesses the strength of the prosecution's case, evaluates potential defenses, and negotiates with the goal of securing favorable outcomes for their clients. They may engage in plea bargaining to obtain reduced charges, lower sentences, or alternative dispositions when appropriate.
•   Professional Development and Continuing Education: A Public Defender I engages in ongoing professional development and education to enhance their legal skills and knowledge. This may involve attending training programs, workshops, and seminars related to criminal law, trial advocacy, and defense strategies. They stay updated on changes in laws, legal procedures, and best practices to provide effective representation to their clients.
Other Duties as assigned.

Supervision   
Received:  Will be supervised by the Chief Public Defender.
Given:   

Education   
Required:  Juris doctor degree from accredited law school. Law school graduates awaiting bar examination results will be considered but must have a supervised practice card, i.e., 3L bar card.
Preferred:   

Experience   
Required:  This position is a potential entry level position for a new attorney.  Applicants applying out of law school should be able to demonstrate an interest in criminal law, community service, and/or providing legal services to the poor. Applicants should highlight criminal law courses, practice clinics, mock trial, and moot court experience.
Preferred: 2 or more years of experience involving criminal representation in state courts
•   First chair trial experience in at least one criminal jury trial taken to a verdict.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations   
Required: Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas or immediately eligible to obtain licensure through the Texas Board of Law Examiners Admission Without Examination (AWOX) process. (Applicants must review the TBLE AWOX requirements: https://ble.texas.gov/admission-without-examination).
•   Law school applicants should be prepared to obtain a 3L bar card. Continued employment will be contingent on bar passage.
•   Valid driver’s license
Preferred:   

Physical Demands   
Typical: Typical activities common to an office environment such as walking, sitting, use of computer equipment, creating and moving paper files, operating a copy machine, walking to and from court as needed.  Some driving may be necessary.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities   
Typical: Advanced computer, research and writing skills including trial advocacy, legal research and library skills. Verbal and written communication and organizational skills; interpersonal skills and ability to deal effectively with the public, other employees and elected officials; skilled in problem solving and decision-making. Knowledge of trial procedures and rules of evidence. Knowledge of state and federal laws, codes and regulations pertaining to area of assignment; knowledge of philosophy and practices of public defense.

Work Environment   
Typical: Brazos County PDO attorneys are expected to use professional courtesy, discretion and sound judgment when engaging in contact with co-workers, clients, prosecutors, judges, other county employees and members of the pubic.  Attorneys are also responsible for maintaining confidentiality of client information and business knowledge.