Attorney 1 - Public Defender

Spokane County•Village of Fonda, NY

9d•$72,436 - $88,119•Onsite

About The Position

This position performs civil or criminal legal work for the County Prosecutor or Public Defender. The position allocated to this class is the first and entry working level of this series; and is responsible for performing civil and/or criminal legal work under the general direction of the Prosecutor, Public Defender or under the direct guidance, as needed, of a higher level attorney. Employees, while allocated to this class, are expected to display an ability and willingness to assume responsibility and advance rapidly to a state of functional individual competency in the employee's assigned area. Area of work is assigned and reviewed for accuracy and completeness at the onset of employment; as experience is gained, less review and supervision will be provided. All work is performed within the policy guidelines of the Prosecutor or Public Defender and applicable law. Positions of this class may be expected to assume the responsibilities of work of a higher class for training purposes. Promotion from an Attorney 1 to an Attorney 2 is determined by an affirmative recommendation of the department.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate’s degree from an accredited college or university school of law.
Member of the Washington State Bar Association.
Knowledge of principles and practices of criminal or civil law as required by the position.
Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
Skilled in communicating effectively both orally and in writing, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction.
Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with the general public and parties affected by the court and administration.
Ability to analyze, evaluate and organize facts, evidence and legal procedures and to present information orally and in writing in a clear and logical form.
Ability to analyze and prepare a variety of legal documents and instruments.

Nice To Haves

One (1) year of prior experience as a law clerk or legal intern is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assists or independently represents the County or a client in court, at trials, hearings arraignments, depositions; files legal documents and papers; and interviews witnesses, plaintiffs, victims, and/or clients/suspects.
Evaluates the facts and examines evidence of specific cases or assignments.
Conducts legal research, provides legal opinions or memorandums and drafts deeds, leases, contracts and correspondence.
Addresses issues, questions and concerns from clients and/or their representatives regarding statutory procedures and requirements.
Responds to written motions.
Provides oral argument in court during guilty pleas, motion hearings, or other matters of law.
Oversees the direct and cross examination of witnesses.
Works with investigators, paralegals, and secretaries to manage court dates, filings, and case investigations.
Assists former clients when they are asked to "return to court" on the basis of having violated probation.
Performs other related duties as required/assigned.