Defense Counsel (Okmulgee)

State of Oklahoma • OK

84d

About The Position

The Oklahoma Indigent Defense System (OIDS) is the statewide public defender agency which provides legal representation to indigent clients throughout the State of Oklahoma, with the exception of Oklahoma and Tulsa counties. OIDS is currently seeking a full-time Defense Counsel in our Non-Capital Trial Division, Okmulgee office.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate degree.
• Active membership and good standing with the State Bar of Oklahoma, or eligibility for admission.
• Scheduled to take the Oklahoma Bar Exam.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of applicable state and federal laws.
• Knowledge of applicable regulations for non-capital trials.
• Knowledge of constitutional law and the Oklahoma constitution.
• Knowledge of agency policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of trial and hearing procedures.
• Knowledge of rules of evidence.
• Experience with legal research and writing.

Responsibilities

• Represent indigent individuals in state court at the trial level in felony, misdemeanor, juvenile delinquency, traffic and wildlife cases.
• Provide clients with competent legal advice and zealous advocacy at every phase of the criminal trial process.
• Perform case management activities, including maintaining complete and accurate files of all pleadings and orders.
• Communicate with clients on all aspects of the case, including plea negotiations and post-judgment proceedings.
• Communicate with client’s friends and family to obtain pertinent information without disclosing privileged communication or confidential information.
• Conduct independent and expeditious investigations relating to the client’s guilt or innocence and potential sentences.
• Collect and maintain evidence acquired through the investigation per established standards and laws.
• Prepare for trial by filing pretrial motions and developing plea negotiation strategy based on jurisdictional practices and policies.
• Conduct ongoing legal research to identify new issues and prepare for briefing of argument on motions.
• Prepare for jury selection by considering legal challenges to selection procedure and developing questions and challenges.
• Preserve legal error for appellate review on all applicable grounds.
• Serve as Co-Counsel as assigned.
• Provide consultation, advice, assistance, and support to other attorneys and staff.
• Perform administrative duties when asked.

Benefits

• Generous state paid benefit allowance to help cover insurance premiums.
• Wide choice of insurance plans with no pre-existing condition exclusions or limitations.
• Life/Supplemental Life/Dependent Life/Disability insurance plans.
• Flexible spending accounts for health care expenses or dependent care.
• Employee assistance program and health/fitness programs.
• 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave the first year for full time employees.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Retirement Savings Plan with a generous match.
• Longevity Bonus for years of service.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree