Virginia Defenders- Indigent Defense Commission is seeking to fill Assistant Public Defender I positions 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 Roanoke Public Defender Office has openings for attorneys who are 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 reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Roanoke office and is employed at will. A successful candidate is subject to a fingerprint based criminal background check.
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 collaboratively.
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.
A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission are required for consideration for this fulltime, salaried position as an Assistant Public Defender. HOWEVER, offers may be made to those with pending Virginia Bar results and/or those who intend to waive in for licensure in Virginia. Knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence is required, as well as experience in the use of Microsoft Office applications and skills in keyboarding. The qualified candidate must have the ability to prepare cases thoroughly and to argue legal positions effectively and persuasively. The ability to accept constructive criticism and adjust accordingly is important as well as the ability to respond quickly and effectively in a fast paced courtroom environment. 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 is required.
Click the following link: https://virginiajobs.peopleadmin.com/postings/237285