The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is now accepting applications for the position of Assistant Public Defender I or II that will serve our mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high- quality legal advocacy.
The Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is excited to announce this opportunity to be on the front lines of what many consider to be the modern-day Civil Rights Movement-criminal justice and justice reform. This is a unique platform to develop and pursue social change and impact the lives of clients.
The IDC’s Portsmouth Public Defender Office has an opening for an attorney who is committed to advocating on behalf of indigent clients. The attorney will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles in various stages of litigation. The Assistant Public Defender I / II reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Portsmouth office and is employed at will.
The Assistant Public Defender must have compassion for our indigent clients, excellent legal skills, the ability to spot and anticipate legal issues, the ability to write, edit and review motions and briefs, and the ability to make sound legal arguments in a courtroom setting. This position requires the ability to work independently and to be a good team player.
If you are interested in applying and joining our mission, please complete an application. If you have specific questions related to applying, please contact us at [email protected].
Duties:
Duties include conducting client and witness interviews, working with staff investigators to investigate cases, filing pretrial motions and post-trial motions, litigating motions, and noticing appropriate appealable issues. The attorney will be responsible for trying cases in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts. The attorney is expected to see clients in jail in a timely manner and communicate regularly with the client, family members, and other approved parties.
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.
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission is required for this fulltime, salaried position. Applicants pending bar results may be considered for an Assistant Public Defender I position, but must successfully pass the Bar Exam and be admitted to the Virginia State Bar to be eligible for full-time, salaried employment. Knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence is required along with experience in the use of Microsoft Office applications and skills in keyboarding. The qualified candidate must have the ability to argue legal positions effectively and persuasively, as well as master subject matter and thoroughly prepare cases. The ability to learn and accept constructive criticism is important as well as the ability to respond quickly and effectively in addressing issues and questions. The qualified applicant will have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing as well as the ability to multi-task, prioritize assignments and remain organized. A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails are required. To qualify for the Assistant Public Defender II position, the applicant must have at least two (2) years of experience in public defense along with the above mentioned qualifications.
Click the following link: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/199378