Assistant Public Defender II, G23, Public Defender's Office

Job Summary

This position is responsible for providing legal representation for indigent clients.

Major Duties

Represents clients who have been charged with an offense; meets with clients and provides advice concerning charges pending and available options.

Researches case law and special legal issues.

Conducts background investigations; interviews witnesses, victims, and law enforcement officers.

Prepares cases for trial; represents clients in court.

Negotiates cases with District Attorneys, clients and family members.

Remains informed of new court decisions, new laws, and revised rules and regulations.

Prioritizes plans and organizes work to meet numerous deadlines and amended deadlines for motions, extensions, show cause and evidentiary hearings, and other court requirements.

Supervises and delegates responsibilities to legal secretaries and investigators.

Maintains legal files and records.

Perform any other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of local, state and federal law.

Knowledge of investigative tools and techniques.

Knowledge of trial proceedings.

Knowledge of computers and job related software programs.

Skill in the completion of legal research.

Skill in producing persuasive legal arguments.

Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions.

Skill in oral and written communication.

Ability to communicate orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.

Minimum Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited school of law.

Minimum of one (1) year of work experience in the area of law, preferred.

Current membership with the State Bar of Texas or eligible for a temporary bar card while awaiting bar results.

Supplemental Information

Complexity / Scope of Work

The work consists of varied legal, management and supervisory duties. The variety of tasks to be performed contributes to the complexity of the position.

The purpose of this position is to supervise and participate in the provision of legal services to indigent clients. Success in this position contributes to the effective and efficient representation of clients.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

Occasionally

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles.

Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.

Moving to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.

Adjusting or moving objects up to 30 pounds in all directions.

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.

Driving a County vehicle or a personal vehicle.

Working in noisy environments.

Working small and / or enclosed spaces.

Light work that includes carrying objects up to 20 pounds.

Constantly

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.

Communicating with others to exchange information.

Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and / or fingers.

Assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.

Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting / standing.

Other Requirements / Information

Must possess a valid and current Texas driver's license.

Drug and Alcohol Policy applies to this job. Pre-employment drug / alcohol testing, Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), and criminal background checks are required.

This position is not covered under Civil Service; however, all other Webb County policies apply.

Valid Texas Driver's License

If the applicant holds an out-of-state license, a State of Texas Driver's License must be obtained prior to employment.