Public Defender Trial Attorney I/II - Fixed Term

Ventura County•Ventura, CA

32d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the administrative direction of the Public Defender and Assistant Public Defender, the Public Defender Trial Attorney I/II performs professional legal services as assigned by the Public Defender. Major areas of assignment may include, but are not limited to misdemeanors, felonies, mental health, and juvenile. Attorneys in this position are responsible for an ongoing caseload and other assignments which require constant interaction with clients, the public, other agencies, and members of the legal profession.

Requirements

Must be an active member of the State Bar of California by date of hire.
Must possess and maintain a valid California driver's license as a condition of employment.
Must be willing to represent, effectively communicate with, and strongly advocate for clients who may be indigent or suffering from mental illness.
Attorney I: Applicants must be law school graduates who have been licensed by and are in good standing with the State Bar of California. No experience is required.
Attorney II: Applicants must be law school graduates who have been licensed by and are in good standing with the State Bar of California. A minimum of two (2) years of experience as a practicing attorney is required.

Nice To Haves

A strong desire to defend our clients' rights in jury trial litigation and an equally strong desire to develop the trial advocacy skills necessary to try the most serious and complex cases charged against our clients.
Demonstrated expertise and knowledge of the philosophy and practice of client-centered public defense, as well as relevant California criminal law, Federal constitutional law and legal ethics.
Outstanding organizational skills with the demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple ongoing cases.
The ability to defend misdemeanor cases.
The ability to address difficult sentencing issues.
Criminal defense experience, preferably in a public defense agency or legal aid office.
Considerable knowledge of defense theories, investigation strategies, and trial tactics.
Strong interpersonal, analytical, organizational, and decision-making skills, with the ability to work independently.
The ability to work in a fast-paced environment, stay organized, prioritize, and take prompt action to accomplish objectives.
The ability to effectively collaborate with others, build relationships with teammates, resolve conflict when it arises, and create an inclusive, respectful working environment.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present information effectively both orally and in writing.
For Attorney II: In addition to the above, the ability to defend serious/violent felony cases from arraignment to sentencing with proven trial experience and trial advocacy skills.
Recent experience in: Student government, moot court, mock trial, or community service or non-profit organizations.
Courtroom litigation as a criminal defense attorney.
Preparing and arguing motions.
Experience interacting with indigent persons/clients.
Specialized skills or training related to criminal defense and immigration law.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Appears with clients at court hearings, makes appropriate motions and pleas, and takes other legal action on behalf of diverse individuals including clients who are indigent or suffering from mental illness; may assist with representing clients in removal proceedings before Immigration Courts, Board of Immigration Appeals, or United States Court of Appeals.
Effectively and zealously litigates jury trials by analyzing facts, resolving legal issues, and directing investigation.
Strategically-plans for all aspects of trial, including pre-trial motions, jury selection, cross-examination, presentation of evidence, and closing argument.
Responsible for an ongoing caseload and other assignments which require constant interaction with clients, the public, and other public agencies and members of the legal profession.
Interviews clients and witnesses and analyzes/evaluates evidence while preparing cases for trial or hearings.
Negotiates dispositions and modifications of cases according to office policy.
Prepares motions, reports, briefs, and other legal documents.
May make presentations to the public and community organizations.
Performs other related duties as assigned/required.

Benefits

An educational incentive of 5% for completion of a graduate degree.
Bilingual incentive may be available depending upon operational needs and certification skills.
Up to 208 hours of Annual Leave per year, increasing to 288 hours after 5 years of service.
Option to receive pay in lieu of up to 100 hours of annual leave.
Eligible to participate in the County's 401(k) Shared Savings Plan and/or the Section 457 Plan.
Eligible for up to a 3% match on 401(k) contributions.
Biweekly contribution towards a flexible benefits program (including medical, dental, and vision insurance options).
Choice of participation in Flexible Spending Accounts for dependent care and health care expenses.
Both the County and employees contribute to the County's Retirement Plan and to Social Security.
14 paid holidays per year which includes two annual floating holidays.