Public Defender 3 - Carlsbad, NM

Objectives Summary

***This position qualifies for a geographical pay differential of an additional $3.75 hourly/$7,800.00 annually***

To provide professional legal services for the Law Offices of the Public Defender in representing juvenile and adult indigent clients in areas of litigation, appeal, counsel, research and analysis.

Essential Functions

· Attorneys at this level should be able to represent clients in all misdemeanors or juvenile cases and low-to-medium level felonies with limited supervision.

· Provides guidance and mentoring to lower-level attorneys and Law Clerks.

· Works under the direction and guidance provided by higher-level attorneys and/or Managing Attorney.

· Will conduct plea-bargaining when appropriate with District Attorneys and other parties to establish agreements to resolve cases.

· Will attend seminars, training classes and review current professional literature to maintain and develop professional skills and knowledge.

· Drafts/reviews, proposes and prepares reports and legal documents.

· Meet with clients, file and argue motions, investigate cases, interview witnesses, proceed to trial and file any necessary appeals.

· Analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge derived from investigation and case law to determine whether a client should enter into a plea or go to trial.

· The Appellate Division attorneys of this level interview clients, trial counsel, reviews the record, and researches to support arguments that errors have been made by the lower courts.

· Performs related and other duties as assigned.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Note: An Employee with this classification may be required to perform at a PD3 level or duties of a lower classification without additional compensation. Employee will be required to show competence in all levels PD2 through PD3.