Assistant Public Defender

Assistant Public Defender

Salary Range: $82,849-$113,108/year

Full-Time, 35 hours per week

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is professional legal work involving responsibility for representation of indigent defendants as assigned by the Public Defender. Work involves representation of each indigent defendant through every stage of the proceedings following arrest through and including any appeals. The incumbent assists the Public Defender in the investigation, preparation, conduct and appeal in various court and legal proceedings involving indigent defendants. The work is performed under general direction with wide leeway allowed for independent judgment in applying legal knowledge to specific problems and in taking appropriate legal action. The incumbent does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only) Prepares cases for hearings and trials, prepares briefs, secures evidence and conducts investigations; Represents and counsels defendants at every stage of proceedings following arrest; Assists with the investigations and preparation of any appeals; Researches legal matters and orally argues motions; Meets with clients in custody and maintains communication with them, and when appropriate with their families; Confers with witnesses, law enforcement officers, judges and District Attorneys concerning individual cases; Confers with defendants, witnesses, law enforcement officers, judges and District Attorneys concerning individual cases; Assists with various court records or reports.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Thorough knowledge of criminal procedure law and practice in New York State; Thorough knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence; Good knowledge in appraising and organizing facts and evidence; Good knowledge in preparing briefs and in the presentation of a defense before a jury; Good command of language; Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Ability to express arguments of law both clearly and concisely; Ability to establish and maintain cooperative relationships with law enforcement and other governmental agencies; Ability to deal with the public; Good judgement.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from a law school recognized by the University of the State of New York. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT FOR ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS: A license to practice law in New York State

Benefits

Working for Clinton County, NY is not only a rewarding career opportunity, but it also comes with the added benefit of being part of the New York State Retirement System. As an employee of Clinton County, you will have the security and peace of mind that comes with knowing you are building towards a stable retirement future.

The New York State Retirement System is one of the strongest and most stable pension systems in the country, providing retirement security for more than one million current and retired state and local government employees. As an employee of Clinton County, you will have access to this valuable benefit and the opportunity to build a secure financial future for yourself and your family.

In addition to retirement benefits, employees of Clinton County enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes Public Service loan forgiveness, health insurance, dental insurance, vision coverage, and a variety of other benefits designed to support your overall well-being.