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 position represents clients in criminal matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings. The role handles a full caseload that may include misdemeanor and felony cases involving adult and juvenile defendants, and develops legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, before or upon completion of a nine-month probationary period. The position requires an Arkansas law license and a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school. The employee must pass a pre-employment background check and obtain at least six hours of annual legal education in criminal law. Other job-related education or experience may substitute for some or all basic requirements with approval, except for licensure or certification requirements.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Licensed attorney in Arkansas with valid Arkansas bar membership.
- Must pass a pre-employment background check.
- In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, and applicable federal criminal law.
- Strong legal research skills and ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop 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.
- At least six hours of annual legal education in criminal law.
- Other job-related education and/or experience may substitute for all or part of basic requirements with Qualifications Review Committee approval, except licensure or certification requirements.
Responsibilities
- Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law.
- Develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, 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, prepare and file legal documents, conduct legal research, and evaluate evidence.
- Handle a full caseload of misdemeanor and felony criminal cases, including cases involving adult and juvenile defendants as required.
- Maintain communication with clients and explain case status and legal options clearly.
- Prepare annual reports and other documentation for Board review.
- Investigate cases, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts.
- Review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess cases and identify defense strategies.
- Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents supporting clients’ defenses.
- Research 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 submission to the Commission, covering the preceding 30 days.
- Complete at least six hours of legal education annually 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
