Staff Attorney II
About The Position
The Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is nationally recognized as a model state-wide public defender system with an exceptional training and education program. Our defense teams ensure the criminal justice process is fair, results are just, and individual liberties are protected. We are hiring a staff attorney to join the criminal defense team in the LaGrange office of the Post-Conviction Branch. The LaGrange Post-Conviction Branch deals with many of the critical legal issues affecting the justice system. DPA’s Post-Conviction Branch is appointed to a wide variety of cases, from cases involving death row inmates, to claims of ineffective assistance of counsel, to civil cases challenging prison discipline. The work of the branch requires both excellent research and writing skills, and strong courtroom advocacy skills. Kentucky DPA looks for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities. The ideal candidate exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed and comfortable working with their defense team which includes other attorneys, investigators, alternative sentencing workers and office administrative legal staff. We seek persons who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.
Requirements
- Must have one year of experience as a licensed attorney in the practice of law or one year of supervised practice under Kentucky Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 2.116, or a combination totaling at least one year of experience.
- Must be admitted to practice law and in good standing in the Commonwealth of Kentucky OR comply with Kentucky Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 2.111 (limited certification of admission to practice), SCR 2.112 (attorney participants in defender or legal services programs), SCR 2.117 (practice pending admission).
- Must maintain any required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials for the length of employment in this job classification.
- Employing agency is responsible for ensuring employee possesses and maintains required licensure(s), certification(s), or other credentials.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in Criminal Defense is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Represents criminal defendants in felony post-conviction cases vigorously, effectively, ethically, and with integrity.
- Conducts client interviews and maintains notes and records of pertinent case facts sufficient to provide proper client representation.
- Researches legal issues and writes clear, concise motions.
- Obtains knowledge of the case through discovery and investigation sufficient to provide advice to clients regarding disposition.
- Develops a theory of the case that is consistent with the facts and the law.
- Advocates for clients at evidentiary hearings.
- Duties are performed primarily in office, prison and courtroom settings.
- Travel is required.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
