Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that the activities of all facets of indigent defense are in compliance with the constitutional and statutory requirements regarding the defense of indigent clients. Develop necessary policies and procedures to attain and maintain standards of indigent defense as they are proposed by the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) and approved by the State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory. Utilize county resources efficiently and effectively to provide a high level of indigent defense services. Ensure the legal representation of each client continues in other courts, legal proceedings arising from the same case, and programs as requested by the court, and that each individual attorney, once assigned, continues to represent each client through the completion of the proceedings in the court unless a reassignment is necessary. Attend court proceedings to monitor attorneys’ court performance and their participation in continuing legal education. Monitor performance of all adult indigent defense cases. Handle cases and oversee caseload. Supervise two full time Assistant Public Defenders, one full time Secretary and one part time Secretary. Appoint and supervise attorney contracts for conflict cases. Develop and implement internal caseload management reporting to certify Supreme Court/SCAO standards are met. Manage department budget. Provide updates to the Board of Commissioners as required. The duties stated are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person so classified and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.
Juris Doctor Degree with a Certificate of Admittance to the State Bar of Michigan as evidence of continued good professional standing and authority to practice law throughout the state. A minimum of two years of experience in the practice of criminal defense or equivalent, including experience in the administration of legal services. A valid vehicle operator’s license; regular, reliable and predictable attendance; comfortable with the daily use of technology in the legal profession; able to perform without additional clerical support, if necessary. A criminal and/or a financial background check may be required. Must maintain State Bar of Michigan Certificate of Admittance throughout employment with Ionia County. Shall not practice law in the State of Michigan for any other client except as approved by the Ionia County Board of Commissioners.
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