JOB SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Chief Public Defender, represents clients assigned to the Galveston County Misdemeanor Mental Health Public Defenders Office. Advocates, in court, for Tex. C. Crim. P. art. 17.032 mental health personal bonds (as well as other forms of pre-trial release). Fully explores whether clients are mentally competent to stand trial and promptly files any appropriate motions with the court and litigates same. Seeks advantageous resolution for these cases through opportunities uniquely available via the mental health docket while continuing to zealously fight the pending criminal charges (including by jury trial if necessary). Works collaboratively with the other members of the office to assist clients in being successful in complying with conditions of bond release and diversion programs and any other relevant tasks/achievements that the client must complete in order to ensure a favorable resolution to the case.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Provides superior criminal defense representation to indigent clients who have been assigned to the Galveston County Misdemeanor Mental Health Docket pursuant to a Tex. C. Crim. P. art. 16.22 evaluation. Initially interviews and meets frequently with clients whether in jail or after release. Prepares for and conducts all hearings for assigned clients. Uses all available local mental health resources to attempt to secure offers of pre-trial release, dismissals, diversions, and/or alternatives to conviction and/or incarceration. Reviews and helps develop case service plans for clients as they pertain to the case offer. Prepares for and tries jury trials for clients if necessary. Attends training and MCLE related to the representation of clients with mental health issues in an amount equaling or in excess of Texas State Bar mandates. Completes special projects and other duties as assigned by the Chief Public Defender. Performs other duties as assigned.
This list may not be inclusive of the total scope of job functions to be performed. Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted or modified at any time.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Doctor of Jurisprudence from an accredited law school required.
Licensure: Must currently be a Licensed Attorney by the State Bar of Texas. Bilingualism is desirable.
Experience: . Must have tried jury trials to verdict. Extensive courtroom experience preferred.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Possess excellent interpersonal, analytical, writing, and communication skills. Possess excellent advocacy and trial skills.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a legal services team.
Ability to patiently represent clients who have mental health issues.
The qualifications listed above are intended to represent the minimum skills and experience levels associated with performing the duties and responsibilities contained in this job description. The qualifications should not be viewed as expressing absolute employment or promotional standards, but as general guidelines that should be considered along with other job-related selection or promotional criteria.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
This job requires the ability to perform the essential functions contained in this description. Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified applicants unable to fulfill one or more of these requirements.