Defender Attorney

Position Summary

Overview:

Duties:

• Mets with the client prior to all critical stages of the prosecution.
• Safeguards that the client's case progresses in a timely manner.
• Keeps the client informed about the case and promptly responds to the client's requests for information.
• Timely prepares and files all papers necessary to effectively represent the client.
• Devotes an appropriate amount of time to maintaining a current knowledge of applicable law.
• Absorbs all applicable codes of ethics and professional responsibility; seeks guidance on ethical issues.
• Performs other related duties as required or requested.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of:
• PA Rules of Criminal and Appellate Procedure
• PA Rules of Evidence
• and other applicable law
• Skills in:
• Assessing client situations
• Communicating, both orally and in writing
• Working with a diverse, challenging client population
• Maintaining the confidentiality of client information
• Maintaining civility in relationships with all clients, co-workers, judges, court personnel, opposing counsel, law enforcement officers, witnesses and the general public
• Operating a personal computer for word processing, computerized legal research, and related functions
• Abilities to:
• Advocate zealously on behalf of the client
• Frequently travel to various magisterial courts and other locations throughout the county as requested or required

Minimum Requirements

• J.D. or L.L.B. degree from an accredited law school
• Existing license to practice law in PA
• Applicants must also show six (6) months of experience as one of the following: a public defender, criminal defense attorney, attorney for a public interest advocacy organization involved with the criminal justice, juvenile delinquency or mental health systems, a judicial law clerk, or an attorney with 50+ hours or 6 months of experience in an indigent pro bono project sponsored by a bar association or 501 (c)(3) organization OR as a law student, must show participation in a clinic, internship or clerkship (paid or unpaid) with any of the aforementioned entities or court of record, membership of law review, graduation in the top half of their law school class or other indication of academic excellence. A demonstrated commitment to working with diverse communities and a challenging population is preferred.

Residency

Allegheny County within 1 year.

Veterans' Preference

Will be awarded to eligible candidates.

Equal Opportunity Employer

INDSJ