Public Defender I

State of Arkansas•Benton, AR

15h•Onsite

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 defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings. The role handles misdemeanor and felony cases involving adult and juvenile defendants as required, and develops the legal abilities needed for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, before or upon completion of a nine-month probationary period. The attorney advises clients about their rights, case developments, and available options; investigates cases; develops defense strategies; and prepares and files legal documents. The role also works with attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff, reports case dispositions monthly, prepares annual reports and other documentation for the Board, and completes at least six hours of legal education in criminal law annually.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed attorney in Arkansas with valid Arkansas bar membership.
In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, and federal criminal law as applicable.
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.
Must pass a pre-employment background check.

Responsibilities

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 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.
Handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony matters involving adult and juvenile defendants as required.
Maintain communication with clients, explaining case status and legal options clearly.
Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board’s review.
Investigate cases, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts, and reviewing police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation.
Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents in support of clients’ defenses.
Conduct legal research on criminal law, case precedents, and defense strategies.
Work with other 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 on or before 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.
Meet or exceed the requirements for the Public Defender I position.