Assistant Public Defender

State of North Carolina

1d•$54,369 - $65,000

About The Position

Come join a brand-new office in District 7 as an Assistant Public Defender and experience all that the inner coastland has to offer. For the young attorney looking for an opportunity to be in the courtroom, developing their trial skills while collaborating with community stakeholders to reduce recidivism, District 7 is the place for you. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, you will appreciate proximity to the Chowan, Roanoke, Middle and Cashie Rivers where you can spend the day kayaking and fishing. The Albemarle Sound is also nearby and home to a challenging and attractive Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course. Drive to the Outer Banks, for a fun and scenic day trip. Virginia Beach is only a 2-hour drive, or you may drive less than about 5 hours to experience all that Washington, D.C. has to offer! In District 7, you can enjoy the peace and charm of living in a community—where “city life” and a faster pace is accessible with only a short commute. This position will be responsible for representing indigent persons charged with misdemeanor and low-level felony criminal offenses in Bertie and Hertford County. District 7 includes Bertie, Halifax, Hertford and Northampton Counties and offers several valuable benefits: State Health Plan and Full State Employee Benefits Package, Retirement Plans, CLE opportunities and free trainings, Annual Public Defender Conference, Public Service Loan Forgiveness based on federal eligibility requirements, expert forensic resources…and more. The District 7 Public Defender Office strives to create a diverse staff with expertise and interest in serving our indigent clients who come to us with diverse needs, backgrounds, ethnicities, and disabilities.

Requirements

Knowledge of: Federal, State, common and constitutional law; judicial procedures and rules of evidence; case, statutory, regulatory, and common law; NC General Statutes to defend criminal cases; judicial and quasi-judicial procedures; and legal research methods.
Skills in: Ability to analyze facts, identify legal issues, and develop strong case strategies; Strong oral communication skills to present arguments persuasively and engage with judges and juries; The ability to think critically and make quick, effective decisions during trial proceedings; Creative problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges during a trial; Strong writing skills to prepare persuasive motions, briefs, and legal documents; Interpersonal Skills; Organization and Time Management Skills; Technology Proficiency Skills.
Ability to: analyze facts, laws, rules, regulations, interpretations, and related written documents and apply applicable law to those facts; plan, develop and execute an effective litigation strategy to achieve desired results; prepare, organize and conduct witness examinations; deliver opening statements, closing arguments, and evidentiary objections; communicate in a clear and concise manner.
Juris Doctor degree from an ABA accredited law school and an active license to practice law in North Carolina.
Applicants awaiting NC Bar licensure will be considered.
Must provide a résumé and cover letter.

Responsibilities

Advocate for client’s rights and interests prior to and during court proceedings, hearings, and trials. This includes conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, developing defense strategies, assisting in investigating cases and gathering evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting evidence in court.
Stay informed about relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents.
Collaborate with other legal professionals, including colleagues within the public defender's office, investigators, and support staff.
Handle administrative tasks related to caseload management, document preparation, and other responsibilities within the public defender's office.
Maintain open and effective communication with clients to keep them informed about their cases, explain legal options, and address their concerns. Also, maintain communication to better understand your client’s unique situation and build a strong defense on your client’s behalf.
Adhere to ethical standards and legal responsibilities in the practice of law.