Oregon Public Defense Commission: Deputy Defenders (Multiple Locations)

State of Oregon•Medford, OR

66d•Hybrid

About The Position

At the Oregon Public Defense Commission, we are committed to fostering a workplace that values integrity, excellence, innovation, accountability, and equity. We seek talented professionals who are passionate about public service and advancing access to justice for all Oregonians. Deputy Defenders in the Trial Division are Public Defenders who provide court appointed legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients who are charged with criminal offenses in the circuit courts in the State of Oregon. Deputy Defender attorneys are expected to represent clients from arraignment through filing of post-trial motions. There may also be occasional pre-indictment representations. Case types will include probation violations, misdemeanors and contempt charges, lesser and major felonies, extradition proceedings, and other adjudications that are directly related to these matters.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited law school.
Member of the Oregon State Bar or eligible for membership through reciprocity or an approved program.
Meets the Attorney Qualification Standards for Criminal Attorney 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5.
Valid Oregon Driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively through written, verbal, non-verbal, and listening skills with clients, colleagues, courts, and other stakeholders.
Ability to effectively manage multiple responsibilities, prioritize competing demands, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain quality and productivity.
Ability to maintain organized and accurate case files, documents, deadlines, and work processes while identifying and addressing errors or omissions.
Ability to maintain professional, focused, and effective while managing high pressure situations, urgent legal matters, competing demands, and tight deadlines.
Familiarity with legal technology, including case management, document management, legal research, electronic filing, calendaring, or similar systems, and the ability to learn new technology.
Demonstrated commitment to public defense and/or experience working with underserved populations, including individuals experiencing houselessness, addiction, disability, mental health challenges, poverty, or other systemic barriers.

Responsibilities

Provide court-appointed legal representation and advocacy to indigent clients charged with criminal offenses in Oregon circuit courts.
Represent clients from arraignment through the filing of post-trial motions.
Handle case types including probation violations, misdemeanors, contempt charges, lesser and major felonies, extradition proceedings, and related adjudications.
Conduct occasional pre-indictment representations.