Assistant Public Defender, Mental Health Division at Harris County – Houston, Texas
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About This Position
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Represents clients of the Public Defender in court who are identified as mentally ill or as intellectually disabled.
- Makes contact with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement as required, including regular trips to jails and prisons.
- Gathers evidence and discovery.
- Supervises social workers, investigators, and other staff.
- Assists in seeking services and assistance for clients.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Education and Experience:
A Juris Doctorate degree.
Licensure:
A current license to practice law with the State Bar of Texas are required.
A valid driver's license is required. (Must obtain a Texas driver's license before date of hire).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Good written and oral communication skills required.
- Effective organizational and time management skills required to successfully execute job duties.
- Must possess the skill to manage a demanding caseload of mentally ill and/intellectually disabled criminal defendants using interviews and evidence-based practices.
NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Three (3) years plus experience as a criminal defense attorney is preferred; including having been approved to take appointments in the Harris County Criminal Courts.
Experience working with mentally ill or intellectually disabled persons preferred.
Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred.
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
- Regular Full-time
Monday - Friday
Evenings, Weekends, and Holidays as needed
- Hours will be discussed during departmental interview
- Depends on Qualifications
- Based on 26 Pay Periods
- Plus, benefits
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.