National Legal Aid & Defender Association · 2 months ago
Public Defender (Trial Attorney 1-5)
Boise, ID
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid, Senior LevelThe National Legal Aid & Defender Association is establishing the Idaho State Public Defender agency to provide trial representation to indigent criminal defendants. The role involves defending clients in various criminal cases, preparing legal arguments, and collaborating with other professionals to ensure effective legal defense.
LegalNon Profit
Responsibilities
Represent clients in low-level misdemeanor, mental commitment hearings and fugitive warrant cases in magistrate court ensuring effective legal defense through all stages of proceedings
Prepare and present legal arguments in appeals to the district court, ensuring the legal rights of clients are protected at every level
Develop case strategies, investigate facts, and review evidence to determine the best course of legal action
Draft and file necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines
Negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate
Appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials
Collaborate with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically
Exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision
Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training
Conduct legal research and analyses data and legal documents
Apply case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence and Constitutional principles
Review and synthesize discovery
Interview clients early and frequently and makes decisions concerning such things as bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial
Determine the need for expert witnesses; locate appropriate experts and schedule them for trial if needed
Work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document case work and timekeeping in accordance with SPD policy
Practice vertical representation in all cases
Follow the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense; and
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited college or university school of law
Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing or the ability to obtain Idaho State Bar licensure within 6 months. Individuals hired before ISP licensure must pass the bar on their first attempt and/or obtain ISB licensure within 6 months. Failure to pass the bar will result in termination
1-2 years of experience as a practicing attorney or a 1–2-year judicial clerkship
3-5 years of experience as a practicing attorney
5 – 10 years of experience as a practicing attorney
Preferred
1-2 years of experience as a practicing attorney or a 1–2-year judicial clerkship
At least 3 years of experience practicing criminal law
At least 5 years of experience in the practice of criminal law
At least 10 years of experience in the practice of criminal law
Benefits
Qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
Company
National Legal Aid & Defender Association
National Legal Aid & Defender Association leads a broad network of advocates on the frontlines to advance justice and expand opportunity.
Founded in 1911
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$0.3MKey Investors
Lumina Foundation
2022-02-15Grant· $0.3M
Leadership Team
April Frazier Camara, Esq.
President & CEO
Vernina A.
Executive Assistant To Chief Executive Officer
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