Senior Assistant Public Defender - Virginia Beach

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Virginia Beach, VA

5d•$100,225

About The Position

Virginia Defenders- Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is excited to announce the opportunity to be on the front lines of what many consider to be the modern-day Civil Rights Movement-criminal justice and justice reform. This is a unique platform to develop and pursue social change and impact the lives of clients. The IDC’s Virginia Beach Public Defender Office is seeking an experienced, dynamic criminal defense attorney to serve our mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Senior Assistant Public Defender reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Virginia Beach Office and is employed at-will. This position includes a local salary supplement. The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D)
Virginia State Bar admission or eligibility for admission by waiver
Extensive criminal litigation experience
Comprehensive knowledge of Virginia Criminal Law, Constitutional Law and the Standards of Practice for Indigent Defense Counsel are required
Applicants must have the willingness to try cases and the desire to improve as a trial attorney
The qualified applicant will be well-organized and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
Teamwork is highly valued in this office, and the qualified applicant will have demonstrated proficiency in working with others as a member of a criminal defense team to achieve successful outcomes for clients
Applicants must be able to lead, mentor, have management skills, have at least three years of experience as a criminal defense attorney, and have significant experience working in a public defender office
A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails is required

Nice To Haves

Candidates who are familiar with the Virginia Beach judicial system will be considered.

Responsibilities

Conducting client and witness interviews
Working with staff investigators to investigate cases
Litigating pretrial motions
Trying cases in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts
Identifying appropriate sentencing alternatives for clients
Serve as a role model for client-centered representation and collaborative office culture
Assisting the Chief Public Defender in supervising and training attorneys