PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 12TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21009110

State of Florida

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Misdemeanor Attorney provides high-quality, client-centered legal representation to indigent individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses. This role requires strong advocacy skills, a commitment to social justice, and the ability to manage a high-volume caseload while ensuring every client receives zealous representation.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Admission to practice law in the state of Florida.
Strong commitment to public defense, social justice, and protecting constitutional rights.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
Ability to handle a large caseload.
Cultural humility and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.

Nice To Haves

Trial experience (jury or bench) preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Representing clients charged with misdemeanor offenses at all stages of the criminal process, including arraignments, plea negotiations, motions, hearings, trials, and sentencing.
Communicating with clients in and out of custody about legal needs and providing them with advice on their legal options in a consistent and timely manner.
Conducting client interviews, explaining legal rights and options, and maintaining ongoing communication to build trust and ensure informed decision-making.
Investigating cases thoroughly, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with investigators, social workers, and support staff.
Researching and drafting legal motions, briefs, and memoranda.
Preparing and filing all legal documents in a timely manner.
Appearing in court regularly for arraignments (when necessary), case management/pre-trial conferences, docket sounding, and other hearings.
Attending first appearances when assigned and accurately annotating the docket.
Advocating for alternatives to incarceration and connecting clients with community-based resources when appropriate.
Collaborating with colleagues in a team-based environment committed to client-centered representation and systemic reform.
Documenting all contacts (with client, family, experts, etc.) and other important case-related information within the client database system STAC.
Answering calls when in the office, if not available returning calls within 72 hours.
Communicating with other attorneys on companion cases.
Getting prior approval for all due process expenses from supervisor.
Reading, reviewing, and staying current on new case law and legislation.
Completing case closing forms timely and accurately.
Running STAC reports at least quarterly to ensure case open/close status is up-to-date and accurate.
Manage a high-volume caseload.