Public Defense Attorney

General Position Summary

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Interview clients as assigned to determine the facts of the case. Review discovery materials to evaluate each case in order to engage in development of case strategy and trial preparation or resolution, including plea negotiation. .
• Meet with clients to evaluate options and strategies. Keep clients informed of the status of their case and promptly respond to reasonable requests for information. Explain to clients all matters necessary for them to make informed decisions about their cases.
• Appear in court to represent assigned client at all stages of the proceedings. Cover general dockets, including but not limited to first appearance and arraignment.
• Personally investigate cases and/or obtain and direct investigators in the investigation of cases, engage in pre-trial negotiations, prepare and argue pre-trial motions as needed, conduct bench and jury trials and any necessary subsequent hearings.
• Coordinate and arrange for tests of physical evidence and the use of expert witnesses.
• Conduct all trial actions including selection of jury in criminal matters outside of juvenile court and involuntary treatment proceedings, cross and direct examination of witnesses, introduction of evidence and exhibits and make arguments on the law and interpretation of the evidence.
• Zealously represent clients in all legal proceedings including, but not limited to arraignments, pre-trial motions, trials, guilty pleas and post-trial matters. Post-trial matters may include post-trial motions, sentencing hearings, restitution hearings, sentence reviews, the filing of appeals and other representation as determined by the needs of each individual case.
• Assist other attorneys when needed.
• Prioritize and plan cases and work activities while using resources efficiently.
• For all attorneys representing individuals in criminal dockets, act on a rotating basis to provide 24-hour access to counsel to individuals under arrest and/or investigation for DUI or other alleged criminal activity.
• Cooperate with the courts in its electronic records project, which includes electronic receipt of hearing and trial notices, discovery, and other documents and information, and electronic filing of motions and other documents.
• Perform other duties or projects as assigned, including attending conferences/meetings on behalf of the Public Defender Office.
• Complete seven hours of continuing legal education within each calendar year in courses related to their public defense practice.

Minimum Qualifications

• Law degree from an accredited college or university (may be waived for individuals obtaining Washington Bar license under other qualifying circumstance).
• Licensed to practice law in the State of Washington with the Washington State Bar Association: if admitted to another state, transfer must be completed within 3 months of accepting position.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver?s license.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of applicable Washington State and federal law relating to criminal and other assigned cases.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations, engage in problem solving, work with upset or mentally ill people, negotiate with others and manage conflict.
• High level of analytical ability and logic. Ability to gather and synthesize large bodies of information.

Cowlitz County offers a competitive benefits package for Full-Time employees, including:

• Health Insurance: Variety of Medical, dental, life, vision, and prescription insurance for employee and family. Employees who are covered under another person's medical plan have the option of an HRA (Health Retirement Account) in lieu of medical insurance. HSA and FSA plans are also available, depending on eligibility.
• 11 Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement: All full-time employees must participate in a Washington State Retirement Services plan, and may participate in a Deferred Compensation Plan, if desired.
• Employee Assistance Program employees and family members for help with personal or family issues.
• Group Life Insurance: Basic life and Accident insurance is provided to employee, with additional insurance available to purchase.