Attorney I - Trial and Pretrial Units

Montgomery County • Norristown, PA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Office of the Public Defender is hiring for a lateral attorney in our Pre-Trial or Trial division. A Public Defender in these divisions represents clients from preliminary arraignment through trial and, if applicable, sentencing.

Requirements

• A Juris doctorate from an ABA accredited law school.
• Admitted to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, or eligible for admission pursuant to Rule 311 of the Pennsylvania Bar Admission Rules.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system.
• Excellent organizational, presentation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to public service.

Nice To Haves

• Previous trial experience preferred (mock trial and moot court experience also considered).
• Spanish language proficiency preferred.

Responsibilities

• Represent and advocate for clients at court proceedings.
• Conduct client interviews in the Montgomery County Correctional Facility and other jails and prisons as necessary.
• Review and distill discovery received from the Commonwealth and explain the strengths and weaknesses of the client’s case to the client.
• Prepare persuasive legal arguments to advocate for the client’s interest at each stage of the legal proceedings.
• Collaborate with social service advocates, investigators, and other members of the legal team.
• Engage in holistic representation practices that assist the client in collateral matters affecting the direct legal representation of the client.
• Work within the organization to advocate for structural change that benefits the interests of public defender clients.
• Perform related work at the request of the Chief Defender or Chief Deputy Public Defender when necessary.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level