0000001222.ATTORNEY IV.DISTRICT ATTORNEY 'S OFFICE

About the role

With minimal supervision and oversight, performs advanced legal work in the area assigned. Work involves litigation and legal research; drafting legal documents; and interpreting laws, rules, and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Evaluates criminal complaints to decide whether to accept or reject the case for prosecution, determine the appropriate charge, and prepare required documentation for indictment.
• Evaluates assigned case or lawsuit by reviewing documentation, conducting legal research, interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence, and determining the most appropriate action.
• Drafts, files, and responds to necessary motions, briefs, or other legal documents for trial and/or hearing.
• Explains the legal process to potential witnesses, prepares witnesses for court testimony, and ensures clients or victims/family are kept informed on the status of the case.
• Gathers, prepares, and presents evidence, exhibits, and related material for trial or hearing.
• Represents the State or client in trial and hearings by conducting jury selection, presenting opening statements, conducting direct and cross-examinations of witnesses, and presenting closing arguments.
• Negotiates settlements or plea-bargain, obtains approval if necessary, and prepares necessary legal documents.
• Manages court docket and case schedules to ensure court deadlines are met and records and documentation are accurate and up-to-date.
• Trains or assists in training Attorneys I, II, and III, and may perform some duties of the Section Chief on a short-term temporary basis.

Qualifications

Graduation from an accredited law school with a current license to practice law in the State of Texas. Two years and six months of experience practicing law, with experience as lead prosecutor for all levels of felony offenses, serving as lead counsel in conjunction with civil litigation, or extensive appellate work on direct appeals.

Skills

Requires a current license to practice law in the State of Texas.

Work Environment

Normal office environment.