PUBLIC DEFENDER I
About The Position
The Public Defender I provides legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The attorney represents clients in criminal defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, and post-conviction proceedings. The role includes handling misdemeanor and felony cases involving adult and juvenile defendants as required, and developing legal abilities for placement in adult criminal circuit court before or upon completion of a nine-month probationary period. The position also includes reporting case dispositions, preparing annual reports and other documentation, and completing at least six hours of legal education annually in criminal law.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Must be a licensed attorney in Arkansas with valid Arkansas bar membership.
- In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as applicable federal criminal law.
- Strong legal research skills and ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies.
- Ability to assess case details quickly, identify key issues, and formulate strong defense arguments.
- Strong public speaking skills, including arguing motions, presenting cases to judges and juries, and delivering persuasive closing arguments.
- Ability to manage courtroom dynamics and engage effectively with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel.
- Must pass a pre-employment background check.
Responsibilities
- Meet or exceed the requirements for the Public Defender I position.
- Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law.
- Develop legal abilities for placement in adult criminal circuit court before or upon conclusion of the nine-month probationary period.
- Provide clients with legal advice and counsel regarding their rights, case developments, and available options.
- Develop case strategies by preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence.
- Manage a full caseload of misdemeanor and felony criminal cases, including matters involving adult and juvenile defendants as required.
- Maintain communication with clients about case status and legal options, explaining information clearly.
- Prepare annual reports and other documentation for Board review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives.
- Investigate cases, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts.
- Review police reports, evidence, and other documentation to assess cases and identify defense strategies.
- Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents in support of clients' defense.
- Conduct legal research on criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies.
- Work with attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff in the Public Defender's Office.
- Represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials.
- Negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel while considering clients' best interests.
- Report case dispositions to office staff by the last day of each month for the preceding 30 days for submission to the Commission.
- Complete a minimum of six hours of annual legal education in criminal law.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
