Assistant Public Defender

Objectives

Individual works under the supervision of the Public Defender to represent indigent trial-level clients in the Delaware County Municipal, Common Pleas and Juvenile Court. This includes preparing cases for trial and independently trying cases, examining witnesses, presenting legal arguments and evidence, conducting pre-trial conferences, hearings, and plea negotiations.

Job Standards

• Juris Doctorate degree is required, and must be licensed, admitted, and be in good standing with the Ohio Bar for practice as an Attorney in the State of Ohio pursuant to section 4705.01 of the Revised Code;
• Must possess a State of Ohio Driver’s License and acceptable driving record;
• Must meet and maintain qualifications for driving on county business as a continued condition of employment;
• All required licenses and certificates must be maintained as a condition of continued employment.

Essential Functions

• Represents indigent defendants in all phases of the legal proceedings, dictates legal briefs, correspondence and prepares pleadings and other legal documents;
• Acts as liaison with criminal justice agencies and public organizations, county departments, offices and agencies;
• Reviews public defense cases with judges, prosecutors, law enforcement and others to obtain information and possible action relative to defendants;
• Visits the Delaware County Jail to meet with clients and/or witnesses;
• Travels, as needed, throughout the State of Ohio to visit clients in the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, and other correctional facilities;
• Interprets laws, legal decisions and other legal authorities;
• Attends and actively participates in professional meetings, maintains awareness of trends and developments in the field of law and incorporates new developments as appropriate;
• Attends meetings and training as required; attends phone conferences, and webinars as needed;
• Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance;
• Holds confidential, all aspects of the job;
• Performs typing, word processing, and related computer operations;
• Works outside of typical work schedule/business hours as required; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Supplemental Information

Complete job description is available on the Class Specifications page.

Equal Opportunity Employer
M/F/D/V