Assistant County Attorney (2)

Woodbury County•Sioux City, IA

About The Position

The Assistant County Attorney is responsible for the efficient and effective prosecution of criminal violators of State laws in Woodbury County, Iowa. The role includes preparing and presenting cases, appearing at preliminary hearings, in court and before the Grand Jury, and preparing related reports, briefs, and other legal materials in accordance with proper court and legal procedures. The position operates under the direct authority of the County Attorney. The attorney represents the State of Iowa, Woodbury County, and the Woodbury County Attorney in assigned cases and investigations, and may also represent County agencies in court matters. The role requires sound legal judgment, effective advocacy and communication, and professional, ethical handling of cases. Attendance is required.

Requirements

Be of good moral character and fitness.
Meet one of the Iowa law-practice eligibility pathways: be licensed by the Iowa Supreme Court; hold a J.D. or LL.B. from an A.B.A.-approved law school and pass the next available Iowa Bar Exam and Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam, then be admitted to practice in Iowa; or qualify for admission under Iowa Court Rule 111 and be admitted under that rule within 120 days of appointment.
Possess knowledge of general criminal and civil law principles, relevant Iowa Code sections, Iowa Rules of Evidence and Criminal and Civil Procedure, professional responsibility rules, and federal and Iowa constitutional principles relating to criminal law and procedure.
Have adequate knowledge of civil-law principles and pleading methods and practices.
Be an effective advocate and communicator with keen analytical skills.
Demonstrate empathy for crime victims and citizens.
Present a professional appearance and demeanor.
Work well with others and treat others with respect, patience, and dignity.
Successfully pass a background check, physical examination, vision screening, back screening, and drug screening before employment.
Submit a completed County application form and resume.

Responsibilities

Prosecute assigned cases and investigations on behalf of the State of Iowa, Woodbury County, and the Woodbury County Attorney.
Review police reports and interview officers or other information sources to determine whether charges should be filed.
Appear in District, Juvenile, and Magistrate Courts for arraignments, motions, jury selection, trials, and other matters within the assigned scope of responsibility.
Research, prepare, and try cases involving offenses occurring in Woodbury County, including attending depositions.
Represent the Department of Social Services, Civil Service, Zoning Commissions, or other County agencies in court cases as required.
Perform attorney functions in assigned matters, including trials, hearings, depositions, evidence-gathering, investigations, and other proceedings.
Make appropriate charging and case-disposition decisions consistent with justice, public safety, victims’ well-being, and applicable law.
Prepare and file court documents and pleadings, conduct legal research, and evaluate evidence.
Interview witnesses and assess their demeanor and credibility.
Assist law enforcement officers with criminal investigations and provide after-hours telephone advice to law enforcement officers.
Counsel and advise County officials on legal issues and procedures related to their official duties.
Research legal questions presented by County officials or the County Attorney.
Assist professional and support staff as needed and perform other duties assigned by the County Attorney.
Keep current on trends, developments, and changes in Iowa law.
Maintain required attendance.