Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney I

Job Summary

The City of Hampton is seeking a motivated and dedicated Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney I to join our prosecution team. This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable courtroom experience, develop litigation skills, and make a meaningful impact in the community you serve.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Commonwealth in a variety of different settings which can include: General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and Circuit Court.
• Prosecute juvenile and felony case prosecutions in all of the courts and the corresponding legal research, drafting and review of legal pleadings related to assigned cases.
• Contact victims, witnesses, police officers and other investigators to review cases and incidents in which they were involved.
• Exercises creativity and skillful negotiating tactics in resolving cases.
• Keep supervisor apprised of status of assigned cases.
• Argue pre-trial and post-trial motions.
• Prepare responses to discovery.
• Advocate for victims.
• Document in writing all actions and provide sufficient justification to support disposition recommendations.
• Advise City and State law enforcement officials regarding investigation of law violations; consult with City and State officials on a wide variety of problems having legal implications; may compile and maintain statistics for the lower courts.
• Utilize appropriate resources, meet deadlines, prepare and review files in an adequate and timely manner.
• Recognize issues relating to specific cases, recognize strengths and weaknesses of cases, and express complex legal and non-legal issues effectively both orally and in writing.
• Adhere to the Rules of Professional Responsibility for Attorneys.
• Respond to inquiries in a timely manner exercising good customer service skills.
• Demonstrate punctuality and regular attendance.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school with an LLB or JD degree (Candidates who are about to graduate will also be considered).
• Must be an active member in good standing in the Virginia State Bar and admitted to practice.
• Must be Licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• OR Must be eligible for admission to the Virginia State Bar. Candidates selecting this option must clearly indicate the basis for their eligibility and provide an anticipated timeline for obtaining admission.
• Experience in criminal prosecution is preferred.
• Must successfully pass a background check related to this position prior to any offer of employment or promotion.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record based on the City of Hampton’s criteria.

Additional Requirements

• Must have the ability to analyze, appraise and apply legal principles and precedents to difficult legal problems.
• Must have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Must have the ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with a broad range of individuals.
• Must have the ability to resolve problems promptly and diplomatically.

Benefits

• Sentara Health Medical Insurance
• OptumRx Delta Dental Insurance
• Anthem Blue View Vision
• FSA Reimbursement accounts
• Standard: Accident and Critical Illness Trust
• Mark Universal Life Insurance Legal Resources Plan
• Virginia 529 Mission Square
• Eleven Paid Holidays
• Group life insurance
• Tax deferred retirement plan 457
• Roth IRS / Roth 457 (b) IRA
• Employee Education Assistance Program (EEAP)
• Training and Career Development
• Medical/Dental and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Direct deposit into most banks
• Savings bonds
• Workers' Compensation

Application Instructions

• Have you graduated from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved law school?
• Are you an active member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar and authorized to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia?
• If you stated that you were eligible for admission to the Virginia State Bar please explain your eligibility and provide your anticipated timeline for admission.
• Which of the options below best describes your legal experience as a practicing attorney?
• Which option best describes your experience in criminal prosecution?
• I understand I must submit a cover letter, resume and writing sample with my on-line application in order to be considered for this position.
• I understand this position requires considerable research and analysis, trial preparation and often requires hours beyond the normal workweek. It also requires some evening meetings.
• I understand I must successfully complete a criminal background check if I am offered this position.
• I understand this position is exempt.
• This Position May Require That You Possess a Valid Driver's License And Have a Satisfactory Driving Record Based On The City Of Hampton Criteria. Failure To Provide Your Driver's License Number Will Prevent Us From Considering Your Application. Please Confirm Your Driver's License Number By Entering It Below
• Are you authorized to work in the United States?