The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is now accepting applications for the position of Assistant Public Defender I for the Office of the Public Defender for Arlington County and the City of Falls Church. This opening is for immediate employment with the office, and is separate from the region-wide posting for attorney positions with start dates later this year. The VIDC is committed to providing superior legal representation to indigent defendants charged with criminal offenses, and the qualified candidate should be committed to advocating zealously on behalf of indigent clients both in trial and appellate courts. The Assistant Public Defender position reports to the Chief Public Defender for the Arlington Office and is employed at will. In addition to the listed salary, there is a potential 15% local salary supplement. Although this 15% supplement is discretionary and subject to annual approval by Arlington County, earnings from the supplement do not impact retirement benefits.
Duties:
Duties include conducting client and witness interviews; preparing and litigating pre- and post-trial motions; working with staff investigators and the sentencing advocate to investigate allegations, collect mitigating evidence, and develop mitigation themes; collaborating with mental health and substance abuse services to identify alternatives to incarceration; representing clients at trial in the District and Circuit Courts; and representing clients on appeal in the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court of Virginia.
The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.
First and foremost, a qualified applicant must demonstrate a deep belief in zealous, client-centered advocacy and a passion for working tirelessly on the behalf of indigent clients. Additionally, the applicant must value camaraderie, and working closely with other members of our team toward shared goals of building a more just and equitable court system. It is important that the applicant be comfortable with public speaking, and have the potential to argue persuasively before judges and juries. Comfort working with disadvantaged persons—including mentally ill individuals and those charged with serious felony crimes—is essential. The qualified applicant must be a member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar and have a demonstrated commitment to criminal defense, social justice, and/or public service. Applicants who have taken the bar but have yet to receive results may be considered, but cannot represent clients until results are received.
The qualified candidate must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities and demands. Resiliency and a growth mindset critical. The candidate must be open to supervision and training in the interest of developing and honing advocacy skills. The candidate must be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and the court. The candidate must be thorough, detail-oriented and possess excellent time management skills.
Click the following link: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/212180