Assistant District Attorney

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. An employee may be requested to perform other duties assigned within the scope of responsibility and requirements of the job.

Definition

Prosecutes felony, and juvenile cases in court; negotiates charges on cases pending for trial; and provides other legal services as required by the county.

Distinguishing Characteristics

For all areas within the scope of the District Attorney’s responsibility – screens and reviews charges in order to determine legal and factual sufficiency; investigates, prepares and prosecutes assigned cases; drafts indictments and presents cases to the Grand Jury; prepares appellate briefs and argues before appellate courts. Performs case load/docket management and supervisory duties in the absence of the District Attorney.

Examples of Important Responsibilities and Duties

Essential duties and responsibilities:

· Prosecute felony and juvenile cases in court on behalf of Hood County; research courtroom evidence, summon witnesses, and negotiate pleas.

· Appear in court for Juvenile Detention hearings; discuss case resolution with Juvenile Officers and the Court.

· Discuss resolution of pending cases with opposing counsel.

· Investigate pending cases by conferring with crime victims, defendants and witnesses.

· Prepare unresolved cases for trial review files and evidence.

· Research legal questions.

· Perform legal research necessary to assist the District Attorney in the trial of felony cases and preparation of written opinions.

· Advise law enforcement officials on legal issues and policy concerning prosecution of cases.

· Represent the District Attorney’s Office in community justice projects and disseminates information to various criminal justice and community groups.

Other important duties and responsibilities

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

· Modern and highly complex principles and practices of public law.

· Methods of public agency administration.

· A variety of legal terminology.

· Spelling, grammar and punctuation.

· Legal principles, practices and procedures of civil, criminal, constitution and administrative law.

· Methods and techniques of legal research.

Ability to:

· Organize, interpret and apply legal principles.

· Present statements of law, fact and argument clearly and logically.

· Prepare and present cases in court.

· Conduct research on complex legal problems and prepare sound legal opinions.

· Have computer skills required for retrieval of information from databases and on-line legal services.

Experience and Training Guidelines:

J.D. or L.L.B. degree from an accredited law school; license to practice law in Texas. Five years’ experience as an attorney in criminal litigation preferred.

Working Conditions

Environmental Conditions:

Office/courtroom environment; working closely with others and alone; working irregular hours; exposure to potentially hostile individuals.

Physical Conditions:

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may require maintaining physical condition necessary for standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Hood County is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status including but not limited to an individual’s disability, sex, race, color, national origin, or age.

Pay: From $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $100,000