Interested in becoming part of an experienced litigation team that has a high capacity for trials and offers an expansive opportunity for courtroom practice? The Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office is seeking a compassionate Deputy Public Defender/Senior Deputy Public Defender with excellent advocacy skills who is committed to ensuring justice, humanity, and equality to indigent clients appearing in the criminal and juvenile justice system. Our attorneys have multiple jury trials each year and daily courtroom appearances. Apply now to be considered for an opportunity with access to a vast document library to help you in your criminal defense career and to be surrounded by skilled criminal defense attorneys.
***Please attach a cover letter to the online application.
The 2019 hiring range is $2,603.20 - $3,093.60/biweekly with full earning potential up to $3,768.80/biweekly.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES INCLUDE:
Advocate on behalf of individuals charged with felonies and misdemeanors through all phases of litigation to include pre-trial, trial, and litigating all aspects of the case through disposition. Coordinate efforts with a support team of paralegals and other staff to ensure the responsible handling of a demanding caseload through disposition of the case. Maintain client communications by telephone, office appointments, and institutional visits. Keep client apprised of investigations, negotiations, and court rulings. Appear at regularly scheduled court dockets and appearances related to an assigned caseload. Conduct legal research and draft motions and pleadings. Interview witnesses. Review legal documents, police reports, transcripts, and related correspondence. Attend professional development training both within and outside the office.
Graduation from a college of law and attainment of a Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school. Admission by the Supreme Court of South Dakota to practice law in the State of South Dakota or be licensed to practice law in any other state and able to take the next bar examination offered in South Dakota. This opportunity is also open to recent law school graduates who are eligible to sit for the next available South Dakota bar examination. Comparable combination of education and experience may be considered. Possession of a valid driver's license and must maintain a safe driving record with Minnehaha County. Must successfully complete pre-employment background process. Working knowledge of civil and criminal law, court procedures, and the principles and practices of legal research. Ability to work with a diverse population and be attentive to the needs of the clientele. Working knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, and practices utilized in legal research. Working knowledge of general law and established precedents. Ability to speak and write effectively in the preparation and presentation of legal matters. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, clients, other agencies, and the public. Ability to maintain professional appearance and demeanor. Consideration for appointment as a Senior Deputy Public Defender requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Demonstrates a commitment to working with the indigent accused and to providing social advocacy to the clientele served by the Public Defender's Office.
Posting will remain open until filled with review of applications beginning November 30, 2018.
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