Public Defender Attorney I

Richland County Government

5d

About The Position

The purpose of the class is to represent indigent adults and juveniles charged with less serious criminal offenses in Richland County. Presents and argues cases in court as assigned; prepares and tries criminal cases; prepares and argues motions; negotiates plea bargains on behalf of criminally charged clients, represents indigent clients charged with crimes at preliminary hearings; participates in case investigation including crime scene investigation, interviews witnesses and victims, and examines evidence; researches legal issues, evaluates and prepares witnesses for trial; selects juries, etc. Requires Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school. Must possess and maintain current membership in the S.C. Bar Association. Thank you for your interest in employment with Richland County Government. Apply for an open position online by selecting the job title you are interested in and clicking the "Apply" link. If this is your first time applying online, you must create an account and select a Username and Password. After your account is established, you may begin completing your application. This application may be saved and used to apply for more than one job opening. The County only accepts applications for positions that are currently open and advertised. You are responsible for documenting all relevant qualifications in the appropriate section of the application. Do not list "refer to a resume", as resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a complete application. All prior work history must be listed on your application. Resumes are treated as supplements to the application only and will not replace any section of the application. Incomplete applications will be disqualified, even if a resume is attached. The application is the primary tool used when determining whether the minimum qualifications are satisfied, so be sure to complete all sections. Applications are due by the deadline noted on the job posting. You will be notified by email regarding the status of your application. The Human Resource Services Department is not able to provide status updates by telephone or email. Richland County is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school
• Must possess and maintain current membership in the S.C. Bar Association

Responsibilities

• Represents indigent adults and juveniles charged with less serious criminal offenses
• Presents and argues cases in court as assigned
• Prepares and tries criminal cases
• Prepares and argues motions
• Negotiates plea bargains on behalf of criminally charged clients
• Represents indigent clients charged with crimes at preliminary hearings
• Participates in case investigation including crime scene investigation, interviews witnesses and victims, and examines evidence
• Researches legal issues
• Evaluates and prepares witnesses for trial
• Selects juries

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees