CLASS TITLE: ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER IV
Direct Representation:
Representation of indigent defendants and respondents in all cases assigned. Representation may include, depending upon the area of specialty, intake processing, collection of background information concerning the client and offense, interviewing clients and witnesses, case investigation, preparation for court proceedings, legal research and writing, and any other representation functions. Representation also includes maintaining frequent contact and a good working relationship with client, and thorough knowledge of up-to-date and relevant law and procedure.
Administrative:
Maintaining accurate and complete files with entries made in a timely manner, and providing such reporting as may be required. Current and thorough knowledge of corrections and community treatment programs and other resources for clients. Participating in periodic evaluations. Periodic preparation of documents supporting office programs and funding. Participating in public defender training and community programs. Intake interviews and financial eligibility determinations as required.
SUPERVISION REQUIRED: Entry level position, working under the direct supervision of unit or division head, with such latitude for the exercise of initiative and independent judgment as is inherent in the representation of clients assigned. Work is reviewed and evaluated periodically; close supervision on a daily basis is provided commensurate with experience and skills.
CASELOADS: Caseloads are limited, in number and/or type, commensurate with experience and skills.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: With respect to representation in individual cases, plans, organizes, coordinates, directs and reviews the work of professional assistants, investigators, social workers, and administrative support staff assigned to assist.
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:
To advise and represent the legal interests of assigned clients pertaining to the technical and legal aspects in the relevant legal specialty.
Represent clients at a variety of court proceedings, including but not limited to hearings, conferences, oral arguments, and trials.
As assigned to provide legal assistance to inmates at the Adult Correctional Institutions, Training School, any federal penitentiary, or any state prison requesting assistance from the Office of the Public Defender for the purpose of resolving pending criminal charges.
As assigned to provide technical and legal assistance to any other assistant public defender as required.
To prepare detailed reports and recommendations.
To respond to requests for technical and/or legal advice as assigned by supervisor(s).
To remain knowledgeable about federal and state law, as relevant to the legal specialty practiced.
As assigned to prepare briefs for memorandum and/or argument.
To prepare legal research necessary to conduct a criminal trial or hearing.
To do related work as required.
PARTICIPANT IN THE J.R. JUSTICE
LOAN REPAYMENT ASSISTANCE
MINORITY CANDIDATES ADMITTED TO A STATE BAR ASSOCIATION ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
THE OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND DIVERSITY EMPLOYER
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR APPOINTMENT:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND CAPACITIES: A thorough knowledge of relevant federal, state, and local laws; a thorough knowledge of the problems inherent in the criminal justice field; the ability to act as advisor and/or counselor to clients assigned; the ability to meet and deal effectively with officials of the State, Court, or local prosecution; the ability to conduct special research projects; the ability to prepare detailed factual reports; and related capacities and abilities.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Education: Such as may have been gained through graduation from a law school of recognized standing, and
Experience: Such as may have been gained through employment as a practicing attorney or previous experience in a responsible position in a related field.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: A graduate law degree comparable to a J.D. from an accredited law school; Admission to the RI State Bar, or eligibility for waived admission.
Send Resume and writing sample to Rhode Island Public Defender, 160 Pine Street, Providence RI 02903. By email to: [email protected]. Fax (401) 222-3287