Deputy District Attorney III/IV (Continuous)

Kings County•Hanford, CA

About The Position

The Kings County District Attorney's Office is seeking experienced attorneys for Deputy District Attorney III/IV positions. Attorneys prosecute criminal, juvenile, and civil cases, working with law enforcement, victims, witnesses, and community partners to pursue fair, ethical, and effective outcomes. Level III attorneys handle a full range of routine to complex cases with increasing independence. Level IV attorneys handle the most serious and high-profile matters, including homicide, sexual assault, domestic violence, major fraud, and specialized assignments, and may serve as liaisons to law enforcement and task forces. The role includes case investigation and prosecution from charging through sentencing, court appearances, legal research and writing, trial work, and communication with victims and witnesses. At Levels III and IV, the position also handles resentencing motions, Racial Justice Act motions, appeals and related writs, and habeas corpus litigation, potentially involving capital litigation, complex discovery, and evidentiary hearings under narrow time frames. Level IV attorneys may lead projects and task forces, including law enforcement training and liaison assignments.

Requirements

Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California.
Level III: One year of experience equivalent to a Deputy District Attorney II in Kings County, or two years of legal experience as an attorney practicing law in California; preferably in criminal law, with demonstrated increased ability to prosecute complex misdemeanor cases.
Level IV: One year of experience equivalent to a Deputy District Attorney III in Kings County, or three years of legal experience as an attorney practicing law in California; preferably in criminal law, with demonstrated increased ability to prosecute complex and/or high-penalty cases with minimal supervision.
Possess a valid California driver's license at the time of appointment.
Qualify for security clearance through a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Be willing to work irregular hours as required, including evenings and outside normal office hours.
Travel within and outside Kings County as required.
Maintain active membership in the State Bar of California.

Responsibilities

Investigate and prosecute routine to complex criminal, juvenile, or civil cases, and prepare and present cases in court.
Evaluate law enforcement reports, determine appropriate charges, file cases, and manage prosecution matters from arraignment through sentencing.
Review and analyze allegations, evidence, police reports, and other case materials.
Interview victims and witnesses, provide case-status updates, obtain information, and schedule meetings or court appearances.
Direct and advise law enforcement and investigative personnel on criminal investigations, applicable laws, court decisions, and legal authorities.
Negotiate with defense counsel regarding case disposition or modification.
Prepare for and appear at trials, hearings, pleadings, settlement conferences, sentencing hearings, and revocation hearings.
Conduct trial work, including jury selection, examination and cross-examination of witnesses, introduction of evidence, and prosecution arguments.
Research law and precedents; draft appellate briefs, pleadings, bail recommendations, motions, and other legal documents; and appear in the designated court of appeal.
Manage court calendars and conduct discussions with court staff and defense attorneys to facilitate case settlements.
Handle misdemeanor and felony resentencing motions, Racial Justice Act motions, appeals and related writs, and habeas corpus litigation in Kings County Superior Court.
Participate in task forces with surrounding counties.
Monitor legal developments, including proposed legislation and court decisions, assess their effects, and recommend appropriate action.
Maintain accurate records and files and compile reports of work performed.
At Level IV, serve as a lead attorney on assigned projects and task forces, including law enforcement training and liaison work.
Perform related duties as assigned.