Attorney III

About the role

The Maricopa County Office of the Legal Defender seeks candidates to represent indigent clients when appointed by the court, prepare cases for defense, and present cases in all phases of court proceedings. This recruitment may be used to fill a current vacancy in the non-capital adult criminal trial group.

Responsibilities

• Appear in court and represent clients at scheduled hearings and trials
• Present oral arguments in support of clients' legal interests
• Research facts and analyze legal issues using both computerized and printed legal research tools
• Compose motions, briefs, correspondence, and other legal documents
• Prepare cases for trial by interviewing witnesses, visiting crime scenes and other case-related locations, and reviewing evidence on and off-site
• Discuss and present analyses of legal issues to clients, court personnel, and related individuals
• Communicate effectively in person and by phone with clients, opposing counsel, co-workers, supervisors, and others
• Travel to courts, jails, detention centers, and correctional facilities to effectively represent clients
• Work effectively with a team of professionals, including other attorneys, mitigation specialists, investigators, and paralegals, consistent with current assignment
• Attend Continuing Legal Education seminars
• Assist in other areas of the office as needed

Requirements

• Three years of relevant experience as a practicing attorney
• License to practice law and a member in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona
• Juris Doctor (JD) or Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an ABA approved law school
• Five years or more of experience as a practicing attorney in the area of criminal law
• Experience with felony criminal cases

Qualifications

• Pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive

Skills

• Effective communication skills
• Ability to handle multiple or complicated tasks
• Ability to lift, carry, or push up to 35 pounds for 200-300 feet

Benefits

• Paid vacation, sick time, and parental leave
• Extensive wellness program
• Enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System
• Tuition reimbursement
• Work with a greater purpose
• Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County
• Low-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents
• Child care benefits, including access to our on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club

Pay

The level and compensation offered will be based on the education and experience provided on the application. The position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

Schedule

Most work is performed in an indoor office or courtroom environment, with exposure to viewing traumatic subject matters, including crime scenes, accidents, etc.