0000004268.ATTORNEY II.DISTRICT ATTORNEY 'S OFFICE

About the role

Working under the supervision and direction of more experienced attorneys, you will complete legal assignments that are more difficult in nature but usually involve limited responsibility. Work involves litigation and legal research; drafting legal documents; interpreting laws, rules, and regulations; or prosecuting misdemeanor cases in an assigned court. You will manage the assigned court, train Attorney I's, monitor their performance, and act as the primary liaison with the court judge.

Responsibilities

• Manage court docket, court schedules, and ensure deadlines are met.
• Train and assist in training less experienced misdemeanor prosecutors.
• Evaluate assigned cases or lawsuits by:
  • Reviewing documentation,
  • Conducting necessary legal research on applicable law,
  • Interviewing witnesses or persons with knowledge of the case,
  • Gathering evidence,
  • Determining the most appropriate action(s) to be taken.
• Draft, file, and respond to necessary motions, briefs, or other legal documents for trial and/or hearing.
• Explain the legal process to potential witnesses and prepare them for court testimony.
• Ensure the client or victim/family are kept informed on the status of the case.
• Gather, prepare, and present evidence, exhibits, and related material for trial or hearing.
• Represent the State and client in trial and hearings by:
  • Conducting jury selection,
  • Presenting opening statements,
  • Conducting direct and cross-examinations of witnesses,
  • Presenting closing arguments.
• Participate in settlement or plea-bargain negotiations.
• Prepare necessary legal documents if a settlement or plea-bargain agreement is reached and ensure signatures are secured and documents filed as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school.
• Six (6) months of experience practicing law.
• Current license to practice law in the State of Texas.
• Experience prosecuting all levels of misdemeanor offenses, including jury selection.

Work Environment

Standard office and courtroom environment.