0000006389.ATTORNEY I.DISTRICT ATTORNEY 'S OFFICE

About the role

Performs entry-level legal work of a routine nature under immediate supervision. Work involves litigation and legal research, drafting legal documents, interpreting laws, rules, and regulations, or prosecuting misdemeanor cases in assigned court. Includes case evaluation, preparation, and management; representation in pre-trial and evidentiary hearings and jury/court trials; and communication with defense attorneys, court personnel, victims, witnesses, and other parties. Level of oversight, training, and supervision is based on experience and expertise in misdemeanor prosecution.

Responsibilities

• Evaluates assigned cases or lawsuits by:
  • Reviewing documentation,
  • Conducting necessary legal research on applicable laws,
  • Interviewing witnesses or persons with knowledge of the cases,
  • Gathering evidence, and
  • Determining most appropriate action(s) to be taken.
• Drafts, files, and responds to necessary motions, briefs, or other legal documents for trials and/or hearings.
• Explains legal process to potential witnesses, prepares witnesses for court testimony, and ensures clients or victims/families are kept informed on status of cases.
• Gathers, prepares, and presents evidence, exhibits, and related material for trials or hearings.
• Represents the State and client in trials and hearings by:
  • Conducting jury selection,
  • Presenting opening statements,
  • Conducting direct and cross-examinations of witnesses, and
  • Presenting closing arguments.
• Participates in settlement or plea-bargain negotiations.
• Prepares necessary legal documents if settlement or plea-bargain agreement is reached and ensures signatures are secured and documents filed as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school.
• Current license to practice law in the State of Texas.

Work Environment

Standard office and courtroom environment.