Performs routine legal representation as a court appointed attorney for indigent clients. Work involves examining and preparing legal documents, rendering legal advice and counsel, conducting hearings, and assisting in preparing cases for trial; May train others; Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Examples of Work Performed
Advises staff and the public on legal matters and the interpretation and application of County laws and regulations
Prepares legal opinions, briefs, contracts, proposals, and reports
Conducts or assists in conducting administrative, regulatory, evidentiary, and enforcement hearings
Negotiate settlements on behalf of assigned clients
Researches points of law involved in hearings to determine the validity and completeness of cases cited
Investigates alleged law violations and prepared reports of findings
Review cases to determine if pretrial motions must be filed
Assists in preparing cases for court trial and in representing the County in matters before court as appropriate
Gather evidence to formulate defense or to initiate legal actions, by such means as interviewing witnesses to ascertain the facts of a case
Represents clients in court for misdemeanor cases; may represent clients in court for felony cases
May draft or assist in drafting bills and amendments for legislative consideration
May provide research for policy and process questions
May serve as a liaison with complainants to be represented in an administrative hearing or with their authorized representatives
May train others
Performs related work as assigned
Experience and Education
Minimum one (1) year of experience practicing law with litigation experience
Graduation from an accredited law school with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) or a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
Member must be in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
Bilingual (Spanish and English) with ability to converse fluently in both languages
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Public Defender II - Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings; and of laws, regulations, and rules related to the County
Ability to comprehend and analyze complex legal issues and complicated factual details
Ability to work effectively with others as well as work independently, without close supervision
Ability to conduct hearings, to prepare opinions and briefs, to prepare cases for trial, to conduct research, to summarize findings, to interpret and apply laws, to use legal reference materials, and to communicate effectively
Employee may be assigned other duties in addition to those listed; duties may change according to the changing needs of the County
Registration, Certification, and Licensure
Must have a current valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license
Must be able to be insured by the County’s insurance carrier
Must possess a license to practice law in the State of Texas
Please submit resume and attach a copy of your license to practice law in the State of Texas with application.
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
