Assistant Public Defender - Appellate Division

Duties and Responsibilities

• Represent clients during the direct appeal, and discretionary review stages of criminal proceedings.
• Review trial records, transcripts, and applicable law to identify and preserve appellate issues.
• Conduct legal research and prepare appellate briefs, motions, petitions, and other legal filings.
• Maintain regular communication with clients and, when appropriate, their family members regarding the status of their cases and the appellate process.
• Collaborate with trial attorneys and other members of the office as appropriate.
• Accurately document case activity and maintain records in the case management system.
• Stay current on changes in Texas and federal criminal law and appellate practice.

Requirements

• Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills. Ability to manage a caseload, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines. Commitment to providing high-quality representation to indigent clients.
• Licensure: Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas or eligible for admission to the Texas Bar.

Qualifications

• Experience handling criminal appeals, motions for new trial, or petitions for discretionary review.
• Judicial clerkship experience, particularly with an appellate court.
• Experience in criminal defense or indigent defense.
• Spanish language proficiency.

Benefits

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Based on 26 Pay Periods Plus, benefits
Employment is contingent upon passing a background check and drug screen.