The newly created Far West Texas Regional Public Defender Office is seeking a Misdemeanor Public Defender, to represent those too poor to hire legal counsel in Brewster, Culberson, Jeff Davis, Hudspeth and Presidio Counties primarily facing misdemeanor criminal charges. The position begins on October 1, 2017, in Alpine, Texas. Applicants must be willing to relocate to reside within the region. Compensation includes salary of $60,000 per annum and attorney will be permitted to maintain a small side civil practice, plus benefits of employment with Culberson County including health care and retirement.
This position provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony and misdemeanor. Assists in the daily operation of the Public Defender Office. Primary responsibility to handle the misdemeanor case load. Additional responsibilities will be assisting in felony trial preparation and trials and consulting with felony complainants and witnesses.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
• Juris Doctor Degree, supplemented by either (1) no less than seven (7) years of of progressively responsible experience involving criminal representation in state courts, and trial services, and which includes some experience in leading, coordinating, and/or supervising professional staff. or (2) having been in a criminal defense clinic eight of the last twenty four months and have a criminal law concentration associated with their law school degree..
• Must have completed 10 hours of CLE in criminal law topics.
• Current active membership in the State Bar of Texas, in good standing.
• Skilled Competent courtroom trial attorney, with a minimum of three criminal felony, one misdemeanor or felony criminal jury jury trials taken to verdict as first-chair or second chair, two felony criminal appeals taken to mandate, and one writ to the Court of Criminal Appeals.
• Valid Texas driver’s license and reliable motor vehicle.
• Must possess the skill and ability to manage a demanding and diverse caseload.
Applicants must send curriculum vitae, cover letter, references, SBOT disciplinary history, and authorization for criminal background check to [email protected], no later than August 31, 2017. Questions regarding Culberson County employment benefits should be directed to [email protected], c/o: Susana Hinojos, Culberson County Treasurer.