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 role represents clients in criminal defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, and post-conviction proceedings. The position requires a valid Arkansas law license and involves handling a full caseload of misdemeanor and felony cases, including cases involving adult and juvenile defendants as required. The attorney develops legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, before or upon completion of a nine-month probationary period. The role also requires ongoing communication with clients, collaboration with attorneys and other office personnel, monthly reporting of case dispositions, annual reporting, and at least six hours of annual legal education in criminal law.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Licensed attorney in the State of 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 defense strategies.
- Ability to assess case details quickly, identify key issues, and formulate arguments for the defense.
- Strong public speaking skills, including arguing motions, presenting cases to judges and juries, and delivering 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 throughout 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 criminal circuit court, adult division, before or upon completion 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.
- Manage a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases 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 the Board’s review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and key initiatives.
- Investigate cases, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts.
- Review police reports, evidence, and other documentation to evaluate cases and identify defense strategies.
- Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents in support of clients’ defenses.
- Conduct legal research on criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies.
- Collaborate with attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff in the Public Defender's Office.
- Represent clients at 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 at least six hours of legal education annually in criminal law.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
