Certified Legal Intern (Public Defender Department)

County of Berks • Reading, PA

53d • Hybrid

About The Position

Provides legal representation for indigent people at Summary Hearings, Preliminary Hearings, Mental Health Hearings, State Parole Violation Hearings, Appeals, and Juvenile Court, while under the direct supervision of a Public Defender Attorney.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited Law School
• Must have certification from the PA Supreme Court to perform as a Certified Legal Intern
• General knowledge of Pennsylvania Criminal Law
• Ability to use Windows-based computer programs
• Possess good problem-solving and organizational abilities
• Possess good oratory and decision-making skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to handle stress
• Physical presence in office and field required
• Access to reliable transportation is required

Responsibilities

• Represent Public Defender Clients at Summary Hearings
• Represent Public Defender Clients at Preliminary Hearings
• Represent Public Defender Clients at Mental Health Hearings
• Represent Public Defender Clients at State Parole Violations
• Prepare appellate briefs and argue appellate issues before the Appeals Court
• Represent Public Defender Clients in Juvenile Court
• Representation includes meeting clients, evaluating cases and evidence, providing advice to clients, negotiating with the police and the District Attorney’s Office, as well as conducting hearings
• Filing documents and client files
• Miscellaneous typing and data entry

What This Job Offers

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