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Merced County · 2 months ago

Deputy Public Defender I/II/III/IV/V - Extra-Help Deputy Public Defender I/II/III/IV/V

Merced, CA

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry, Mid, Senior Level

$37.24/hr - $72.11/hr

0+ years exp

Merced County is seeking candidates for the position of Deputy Public Defender I/II/III/IV/V. The role involves acting as defense counsel in criminal cases, preparing legal documents, and performing legal research while providing mentorship to junior attorneys.

GovernmentPublic SafetySocial Assistance

Responsibilities

Acts as defense counsel in criminal cases; Interviews and advises defendants and witnesses

Interprets and applies laws, court decisions, etc. in the preparation of cases and briefs

Prepares pleadings and other legal documents in connection with suits, trials, hearings, conservatorships, and other legal proceedings; Performs legal research and investigations

Examines evidence and prepares and presents the case for the defense in assigned criminal actions

Performs administrative duties for the Public Defender; Dictates correspondence and reports

Assists the Chief Deputy Defender and the Public Defender as needed

Level V- Lead, provide mentorship and direction to other attorneys; May assist in training other professional staff

Level V-Demonstrates necessary proficiency, diligence, and quality of representation appropriate for capital cases

Qualification

Criminal law practiceLegal research methodsTrial proceduresCapital case defenseDraft legal documentsInvestigate criminal complaintsEffective communicationPublic contactMentorshipTeam collaboration

Required

Active membership in the State Bar of California at time of appointment

Possess a valid California driver's license at time of appointment and maintain

Level I: None

Level II: One (1) year of experience in the practice of civil or criminal law

Level III: Two (2) years of experience in the practice of civil or criminal law

Level IV: Two (2) years of experience as a Deputy Public Defender III in Merced County OR Four (4) years of experience in the practice of civil or criminal law

Level V: Two (2) years of experience as a Deputy Public Defender IV with Merced County OR Six (6) years of experience in the practice of civil or criminal law

Frequent walking and standing for long periods of time; kneel, bend, twist, squat, balance, and crawl

Frequent use of a data entry device including repetitive hand and arm motions

Frequent lifting 5 pounds or less, occasionally lift and carry up to 40 pounds

Frequent use of depth perception, peripheral vision and color perception; good overall vision

Frequent hearing of normal speech and talking in person and on the telephone

Frequent concentration, decision-making and public contact; Conduct presentations

Frequently lift, carry, reach, push, pull twist and manipulate large and small objects

Occasional exposure to emergency situation, trauma, or grief; occasional working alone and traveling

Occasional contact with dirt, dust, smoke, fumes, poor ventilation and indoor/outdoor cold and heat

Frequent use of hand – eye coordination; Normal dexterity, frequent holding and grasping

Analyze data, interpret directions, procedures and regulations, and develop appropriate responses

Perform job duties under stressful conditions and respond appropriately to situations

Maintain confidential information in accordance with legal standards and/or County regulations

Regular attendance is an essential function

Knowledge of the practice of criminal law, including pertinent constitutional principles, legal codes, statutes, and court decisions necessary to providing effective defense

Knowledge of legal research methods

Knowledge of trial procedures and the rules of evidence

Knowledge of duties, powers, limitations, and responsibilities of the Public Defender's office

Knowledge of legal procedures and documents used in the court cases

Knowledge of ethical and professional rules of conduct

Ability to develop facts and legal issues and to present clear and logical legal arguments and statements in the defense of indigent clients

Ability to research, analyze and apply legal principles, facts, evidence, and precedents to legal defense problems

Ability to draft legal instruments and opinions

Ability to investigate and defend criminal complaints

Ability to perform difficult legal research

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others of differing socio-economic background

Ability to effectively represent Public Defender functions in contact with the courts, citizens, community organizations and other government agencies

Ability to present statements of fact, law and arguments clearly and logically in written and oral form

Ability to operate a personal computer and other office equipment

Ability to communicate effectively with others in person and over the telephone

Level V- Effectively lead, mentor, and train attorneys and professional staff