0000008382.PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT(PART-TIME ATTORNEY IV).PUBLIC DEFENDER

About the role

The Motion for New Trial (MNT) attorney investigates, evaluates, and files motions for new trial within 30 days of a final trial court judgment in cases where the Public Defender is appointed on appeal. This position is housed in the appellate division but requires presence in trial courts, collaboration with clients and investigators, and support for briefing counsel on appeals.

The MNT attorney will:

• Set up the initial case by performing conflict checks, logging deadlines, filing initial motions, requesting trial attorney files, subpoenaing jail visit logs and cards, ordering medical records, and meeting with the client.
• Evaluate the case by reviewing trial court records, conducting legal research, interviewing the client, consulting with trial counsel, gathering evidence, and determining if an MNT is appropriate.
• Draft and file the MNT if appropriate, prepare and file a reply brief if the State responds, and represent the client in the MNT hearing.
• Prepare a memo for the appellate file explaining why an MNT is not appropriate if filing is not warranted.

Responsibilities

• File appellate briefs on behalf of indigent defendants in direct appeals of trial court judgments and orders.
• Conduct legal research, write briefs, and appear in appellate court as necessary.
• Comply with appellate timetables.
• Advise the litigation section on developments in case law and guide trial attorneys on preserving issues for appeal.
• Respond to judges regarding jury charges and legal questions.
• Assist felony and misdemeanor public defenders as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school with a license to practice law in the State of Texas.
• Minimum of 2 years and 6 months of experience practicing law.
• Extensive appellate work on direct appeals is required.
• Ideal candidate has 5 or more years of experience practicing law, including 3 years of criminal trial court or criminal appellate experience.

Work Environment

Standard office environment.