Deputy Public Defender

Under general supervision, perform professional work of considerable difficulty in defending criminal cases and advising on legal matters; perform related work as assigned.

Essential Job Functions

(Essential function, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.)

• Provide legal representation to indigent clients in the defense and resolution of cases.
• Assist in the defense of cases, review legal documents and compile and analyze case facts.
• Conduct research and provide consultation involving complex and difficult legal issues.
• Defend cases in Justice Courts.
• Conduct online legal research.
• Obtain and review source documents such as police reports, medical records and transcripts.
• Locate and interview witnesses.
• Prepare and file necessary court documents.
• Attend and participate in court appearances and legal proceedings in person.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of principles and procedures of the Arizona justice system.
• Knowledge of the statutes and legal precedents.
• Knowledge of legal and administrative proceedings.
• Knowledge of the preparation of legal defenses.
• Skill in rendering logical, clear and effective arguments.
• Skill in interpreting statutes, case histories and various laws.
• Skill in effectively communicating verbally and in writing.
• Skill at conducting computerized legal research.
• Skill in preparing documents by word processing.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public.

Desirable Qualifications

Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and current membership in the State Bar of Arizona.