Attorney II

County of Chester • Justice Center - West Chester, PA

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Attorney II position may include a transition to managing a caseload at Common Pleas, handling more complex juvenile matters or specialty / miscellaneous court representation. Counsel will represent clients in criminal matters through completion. This may entail hearings, jury or non-jury trials, or any other non-trial resolution, such as a guilty plea, disposition under the Juvenile Act, diversionary program, or appeal. A criminal background check is required.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• Pennsylvania Attorney’s License.
• Substantial job-related experience.
• Must have analytical, research and writing skills.
• Must have trial advocacy skills
• Knowledge of Criminal Law and procedure.
• Must be able to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Must have a professional and competent attitude, demeanor and appearance.
• Ability to maintain confidential information and handle confidential matters.
• Ability to work cooperatively
• Strong organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Twelve hours of continuing legal education is required annually.
• A valid driver’s license and use of a personal vehicle is required.

Nice To Haves

• Previous public defender’s office, or other relevant public or private sector experience.
• Ability to manage a client caseload
• Ability to write clearly and concisely.
• Knowledge of Chester County Courts, procedures and Local Rules.
• Strong time management skills and the ability to prioritize.
• Ability to exhibit sound and accurate judgement.
• Ability to multi-task and carry tasks to completion.

Responsibilities

• Review all materials received either through pre-trial discovery or generated by the Public Defender’s Office investigation
• Review the relevant statutory and case law and conduct legal research, as needed.
• Consult with clients regarding their pending matters
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of client’s case and the government’s case.
• Negotiate with District Attorneys with the goal of obtaining non-trial dispositions for clients
• Prepare, file, and litigate appropriate legal motions.
• Represent clients in jury and non-jury trials, juvenile matters, miscellaneous matters, specialized courts and treatment courts, as well as some post-conviction and appellate matters.
• Represent clients in guilty pleas and sentencings
• Communicate with other departments and agencies
• Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.

Benefits

• Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

What This Job Offers

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