What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Public Defender position at County of Erie, PA?
Posting Notice: Erie County offers a generous fringe benefit package including: low cost medical, dental, and vision; fourteen paid holidays; up to eleven combined personal and vacation days in the first year of employment.
Definition of Class
- Performs professional legal work representing indigent clients in criminal proceedings in the magisterial district and common pleas courts, managing assigned cases under general supervision.
Nature of Work
- Assistant Public Defenders provide constitutionally and statutorily mandated legal representation to indigent individuals at all stages of criminal proceedings. Work involves independent case handling, legal analysis, client counseling, and courtroom advocacy. Cases may range from summary offenses to serious felonies, requiring the exercise of sound professional judgment, adherence to ethical obligations, and compliance with the Pennsylvania Public Defender Act and applicable rules of court.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Represent clients in all phases of criminal proceedings, including preliminary hearings, arraignments, motions, trials, and sentencing
- Conduct legal research, draft motions, briefs, and other pleadings
- Provide legal advice and maintain regular communication with clients
- Investigate cases, including reviewing discovery, interviewing witnesses, and working with investigators and experts
- Negotiate plea agreements with prosecutors when appropriate
- Advocate for clients in court through oral argument and trial litigation
- Ensure compliance with constitutional requirements, statutory law, and ethical obligations
- Maintain accurate case files and documentation in accordance with office policies
- Collaborate with colleagues, support staff, and external agencies as necessary
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure, and rules of evidence
- Ability to analyze legal issues and apply law to complex factual scenarios
- Strong written and oral advocacy skills
- Ability to manage a high-volume caseload efficiently
- Skill in negotiation and courtroom litigation
- Ability to communicate effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds
- Sound professional judgment and adherence to ethical standards
- Ability to work independently while functioning as part of a team
Minimum Requirements
- Juris Doctor Degree from an Accredited Law School
- Must be eligible to practice law in Pennsylvania
- Must have a Valid Driver's License
- Must Provide Own Transportation
Conditions Of Employment