ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania at County of Centre

Position Title: ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

LAW CLERK/ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

Grade: 13 Shift Available: Full - Time (Non-Exempt) (40HRS) LAW CLERK

Grade: 18 Shift Available: Full - Time (Exempt) (40HRS) LAW CLERK

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 or reports.
• Dictates correspondence.
• Interacts with other internal departments, police and external agencies and general public.
• Interprets new legal rulings and procedures.
• Attends staffing and training sessions.
• Advises public groups of the functions of the office.
• Travels as necessary for trial preparations.
• 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. None required, but public defender internship or similar experience preferred. Must possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and a willingness to travel as needed. Must complete the required Child Abuse and FBI background check.

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

Centre County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer