Attorney III (Public Defender)

About the role

The Public Defender provides legal representation for adults and juveniles who are charged with criminal offenses and otherwise unable to afford counsel. The Public Defender also represents those facing involuntary medication, conservatorships, parole and PRCS violations, and MDO, NGI, and SVP commitments. The Public Defender vigorously protects the constitutional rights of the accused.

Job Duties

• Reviewing police reports and other relevant discovery
• Conducting legal research
• Drafting and litigating appropriate motions
• Directing investigation, including contacting witnesses, issuing subpoenas and collecting relevant documents
• Communicating with clients to explain legal processes and developments
• Advising clients of legal rights and options
• Appearing with and for clients at all court hearings, including trials, other hearings and sentencings
• Negotiating with the prosecution to obtain the best outcome for the client
• Taking felony cases to trial, including serious and violent felonies, multiple strike cases and/or sex offenses
• Perform other related duties as required.

Experience and Education

An individual must possess any combination of experience and education that would likely produce the required knowledge and abilities. A desirable combination is: Experience: Four years of general legal experience or three years of criminal law, or one year in a District Attorney's or Public Defender's Office as an Attorney II equivalent in Napa County. Education: Graduation from an accredited law school.

License or Certificate

• Active membership in the California State Bar Association
• Possession of a valid California Driver's License

Example of Duties

View the full job description, including the example of duties, Attorney III Benefits

Disaster Service Workers

Napa County employees automatically become Disaster Service Workers. This means that when Napa County experiences emergencies (earthquake, wildfire, power outage, flood, etc.) you may be asked to pivot from your regular duties to provide critical services to those affected by the emergency (CA Govt Code 31012).

ADA Accommodation

Applicants requiring accommodation during the application and/or selection process pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act should contact County of Napa Human Resources at (707) 253-4303.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Napa County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Public Services Employees Benefits Information

SALARY - Salaries are based on a five-step range. Appointments are usually made at the beginning step with advances occurring at six months and the completion of each year thereafter. Salary rates are reviewed annually. Additional Benefits Info - Click here for additional benefits information for Public Services Employees: https://www.countyofnapa.org/DocumentCenter/View/25886/Benefits-Summary---Public-Service-Employee-PSE

Physical Standards

Certain designated County positions require a candidate to pass a physical examination prior to appointment. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of this examination.

Fingerprinting

All employees hired into allocated positions or extra help positions will be fingerprinted.

Selection Process

FOR POSITIONS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND THE PROBATION DEPARTMENT - The selection process will include an oral board interview, psychological assessment, background investigation, and a pre-employment physical exam.