Deputy Public Defender III - Extra Help
About the role
Bring your passion for public service and criminal law experience to the Public Defender's Office! This extra‑help (temporary) Deputy Public Defender position can be filled at the I, II, III, or IV level, depending on qualifications. Deputy Public Defender III is the advanced working level, expected to defend the full range of misdemeanor cases, less serious or complex felony cases, or specialized legal assignments, working under direction while using independent judgment. The Sonoma County Public Defender's Office provides legal representation to individuals who are financially unable to retain counsel and are entitled to court‑appointed counsel, handling misdemeanor and felony criminal offenses, juvenile delinquency, mental health, conservatorships, contempt, and probate and welfare proceedings where appointed counsel is provided.
Responsibilities
- Perform legal work of above average difficulty involving the investigation, preparation, and presentation of criminal and civil cases before the courts.
- Work directly with clients and investigate, research, prepare, and defend criminal and/or civil cases.
- Interpret and apply laws, court decisions, and other legal authorities for use in the preparation of cases, opinions, and briefs.
- Prepare pleadings and other legal documents in connection with trials, hearings, and other legal proceedings.
- Conduct general legal research.
- Interview and advise clients.
Requirements
- Professional License: Current active membership in the State Bar of California.
- Experience: Any combination of training and experience that provides the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities listed; normally two years of legal experience practicing criminal law as a licensed attorney, including one year of experience comparable to the level of Deputy Public Defender II; or equivalent experience with another defense agency