ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania at County of Centre

Position Title: ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

Grade: 18 Shift Available: Full – Time (Exempt) (40HRS)

Summary of Job Functions:
• Investigates assigned cases, interviews and subpoenas witnesses and conducts research in preparation for pre-trial hearings and trials.
• Counsels clients.
• Prepares and files motions, briefs and other legal documents.
• Visits mental hospitals, jails, and state correctional facilities if client is detained.
• Represents client at pre-trial hearings/conferences, other proceedings, arraignments, jury and non-jury trials, sentencing, and post-conviction hearings.
• Prepares post-trial motions, briefs, and arguments for appeals to Commonwealth, Superior and Supreme Courts.
• Conducts legal research in preparation of cases and trials.
• Negotiates plea-bargains with District Attorney for clients.
• Utilizes computer for docketing, drafting letters, and other legal correspondence and reports.
• Dictates correspondence.
• Interacts with other internal departments, police, and external agencies and general public.
• Attends staffing and training sessions.
• Advises public groups of the functions of the office.
• Travels as necessary for case preparation
• Performs other job-related duties as required.

Minimum Training and Experience:
Juris Doctorate degree. Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and admission to the Pennsylvania Bar Association required. Public Defender internship or similar experience preferred. Must possess a valid Pennsylvania driver's license and a willingness to travel as needed.

For more information contact HR at 814-355-6748 or humanresources@centrecountypa.gov

Centre County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer