Public Defender's Office - Assistant Public Defender I

Assistant Public Defender I - $61,163 - $81,964/ Year - Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance - Life Insurance - Paid Time Off - Pension Plan Duties: - Provides court-appointed indigent defense services within Berrien County Courts. - Carries a full caseload as determined by the Chief Public Defender. - Attends legal and community meetings. - Reviews charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery provided by the prosecution. - Promptly meets with clients to learn the client's goals for the representation and any special needs of the client. - Determines what further fact investigation to undertake and directs that investigation. - Determines what legal issues need development and researches those issues. - Negotiates with the prosecution and promptly advises the client of the status of those negotiations. - Litigates any legal issues that are necessary and appropriate, including bringing cases to trial. - Conducts any post-trial litigation. Performs duty-attorney functions as assigned. - This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified. Education and Experience: - Graduation from an accredited law school. - Must be a member of the Michigan State Bar in good standing. - At least one year of criminal defense experience or comparable civil legal services is desired. Special Requirements: - Must successfully pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen. - Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to a vehicle. Required Knowledge and Skills: - Ability to operate technology and typical office equipment. - Able to utilize the services of interpreters when necessary. - Effective communication skills, with the ability to relate empathetically to clients with diverse backgrounds and special needs. - Must exercise common sense and good judgment. - Able to maintain confidentiality with highly sensitive information. - Ability to learn quickly, multitask, and function efficiently under stressful and distracting conditions. - Work independently as well as cooperatively in a legal services team atmosphere. Note: - APDs may participate only in Berrien County Public Defender Office assigned legal work for compensation during their employment, with the exception of cases obtained prior to employment with the office. - Permission of the Chief Public Defender is required to continue representation on prior non-BCPD cases and/or to be involved in active representation on a pro bono basis.