The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is now accepting applications for the position of Assistant Public Defender I in the Office of the Public Defender for Arlington County and the City of Falls Church. This opening is for immediate employment with the office. The VIDC is committed to providing superior legal representation to indigent defendants charged with criminal offenses, and the qualified candidate should be committed to advocating zealously on behalf of indigent clients both in trial and appellate courts. The VIDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high- quality legal advocacy. The Assistant Public Defender position reports to the Chief Public Defender for the Arlington Office and is employed at will. In addition to the listed salary, there is a 22.5% local salary supplement, although this 22.5% supplement is discretionary, subject to annual approval by Arlington County, and earnings from the supplement do not impact retirement benefits.
The Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is excited to announce this opportunity to be on the front lines of what many consider to be the modern-day Civil Rights Movement-criminal justice and justice reform. This is a unique platform to develop and pursue social change and impact the lives of clients.
The Assistant Public Defender must have compassion for our indigent clients, excellent legal skills, the ability to spot and anticipate legal issues, the ability to write, edit and review motions and briefs, and the ability to make sound legal arguments in a courtroom setting. This position requires the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
If you are interested in applying and joining our mission, please complete an application. If you have specific questions related to applying, please contact us at [email protected].
Duties:
Duties include conducting client and witness interviews; preparing and litigating pre- and post-trial motions; working with staff investigators and the mitigation specialist to investigate allegations, collect mitigating evidence, and develop mitigation themes; collaborating with mental health and substance abuse services to identify alternatives to incarceration; representing clients at trial in the District and Circuit Courts; and representing clients on appeal in the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court of Virginia. The attorney is expected to see clients in jail in a timely manner and communicate regularly with the client, family members, and other approved parties.
The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.
First and foremost, a qualified applicant must demonstrate a deep belief in zealous, client-centered advocacy and a passion for working on the behalf of indigent defendants. Additionally, the applicant must value camaraderie and working closely with like-minded individuals in a team environment. It is important that the applicant be comfortable with public speaking, and have the potential to argue persuasively before judges and juries. The applicant should possess effective legal research and writing skills, and the capacity to think creatively about legal issues. Comfort working with disadvantaged persons—including mentally ill individuals and those charged with serious felony crimes—is essential. The qualified applicant must have a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and be a member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar and have a demonstrated commitment to criminal defense, social justice, and/or public service. Knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence is required. Applicants who are taking the February bar may be considered, but cannot represent clients until Bar results are received, and continued employment would depend on passing the Bar exam. A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails are required.
The qualified candidate must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, unpredictable environment with significant stress and frequently changing tasks and time-demands. The candidate must be open to supervision and training in the interest of professional growth and the development of advocacy skills. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and the court. The candidate must be thorough, detail-oriented and possess excellent time management skills.
Click the following link: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/258559
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