Assistant Commonwealth Attorney II

County Of Albemarle•Charlottesville, VA

10d•$109,109 - $120,595•Hybrid

About The Position

The Albemarle County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office is seeking an Assistant Commonwealth Attorney II. This office is committed to meaningful reform in the criminal justice system, believing that a fair criminal adjudicative process enhances public safety. They strive towards a more perfect justice system by centering the voices of victims, treating the accused with dignity, and working to undo the harmful policies of the past. The office is open to hiring former defense attorneys but also welcomes candidates without that specific experience. The ideal candidate will possess the judgment and experience to evaluate cases, decide provability, and adapt to changing circumstances. They should be creative in developing plea agreements that consider accountability and aim to prevent reoffending. While seeking incarceration for those who pose a danger to the community, the candidate must also be an effective trial lawyer. The role requires compassion and judgment for rehabilitation and creative solutions, alongside the skills to succeed in conventional prosecutions when necessary. The office fosters a collaborative environment where peer advice is sought and welcomed. They are looking for an independent, intelligent, kind, justice-minded, social teammate who is excited about reform-focused prosecution and views it as a team effort. All County staff must maintain Virginia residency throughout their employment.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of Virginia criminal and traffic laws, Virginia criminal procedures, Virginia and Federal constitutional issues, as well as local rules of court and trial practice.
Ability to perform intricate and rapid legal research, and to prepare legal briefs for trial and appellate courts.
Ability to communicate effectively with law enforcement personnel, expert witnesses, lay witnesses, and victim witnesses.
Ability to prepare and present complex cases before a trial court in a short period of time.
Comprehensive working knowledge of efficient office procedures, and the ability to establish and maintain constructive, effective, and professional relationships with fellow attorneys, public officials, judicial officers, and the public.
Ability to present ideas and provide counsel effectively in writing and orally to professionals and lay persons.
Ability to manage a large caseload.
Knowledge of computerized word processing, email communications, and electronic case management system.
Skilled at time management and able to work effectively under the pressure of deadlines.
Knowledge of legal ethics in general and awareness of specific ethical rules applicable to prosecutors.
Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university.
J.D. from an accredited law school.
Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia and admitted to practice before the Virginia Supreme Court.
A minimum of three years of experience as a Virginia attorney handling primarily criminal matters.

Nice To Haves

Prior defense experience

Responsibilities

Prosecute misdemeanor cases before the General District Court
Prosecute misdemeanor cases before the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Prosecute felony preliminary hearings before the General District Court
Prosecute felony preliminary hearings before the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Prosecute felony bench and jury trials and misdemeanor appeals before the Circuit Court
Prosecute murder cases before the Circuit Court
Write briefs and Memoranda on Motions Filed in the Circuit Court
Argue Suppression Motions and other Motions before the Circuit and General District Courts
Advise law enforcement on all legal matters involving the investigation and prosecution of criminal conduct
Develop and conduct formal training on Virginia laws and the United States Constitution for law enforcement
Advise and work with governmental agencies and the public in coordinated efforts to ensure and enhance crime prevention and public safety
Make relevant presentations to community groups on law enforcement
Performs related work as assigned