Municipal Public Defender at TOWNSHIP OF EDISON – EDISON, New Jersey

POSITION SUMMARYThe Township of Edison is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Municipal Public Defender. This position provides legal representation to eligible indigent defendants appearing before the Edison Municipal Court, in accordance with New Jersey law and the Rules Governing the Courts of the State of New Jersey.The Municipal Public Defender is appointed by the Township Council and operates under the functional supervision of the Municipal Judge and the administrative supervision of the Director of Law.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe Municipal Public Defender shall:• Represent eligible indigent defendants charged with offenses within the jurisdiction of the Edison Municipal Court• Advise defendants of their constitutional rights, legal options, and potential consequences• Appear in court for arraignments, pretrial conferences, motions, trials, and sentencing• Conduct client interviews and case evaluations• Prepare and file motions, briefs, and other legal documents• Negotiate dispositions when appropriate and legally permissible• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with the New Jersey Rules of Professional Conduct• Coordinate with court staff and other parties as necessary• Comply with all directives, procedures, and reporting requirements of the Municipal CourtMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSApplicants must:• Be an attorney licensed to practice law in the State of New Jersey• Be in good standing with the Supreme Court of New Jersey• Possess working knowledge of New Jersey municipal court procedures and criminal law• Demonstrate the ability to manage multiple cases efficiently• Have no conflicts of interest that would interfere with the performance of dutiesExperience in municipal or criminal defense practice is preferred.COMPENSATIONCompensation shall be set by Township ordinance or resolution and paid in accordance with municipal policy.LEGAL NOTICEThis position is a court-appointed role and does not constitute traditional employment with the Township. Appointment is subject to approval by the Township Council and compliance with all applicable statutes, court rules, and ethical requirements.