Deputy Public Defender - Trial Division

Litigation of trials, appeals, and collateral review actions

Assigns and prioritizes caseload demands

Investigates assigned cases, interviews and subpoenas witnesses and conducts research

Selects and trains Assistant Public Defenders

Represents defendant in criminal actions from preliminary hearings through jury trial and final appeal

Prepares post-trial motions, prepares and writes briefs, memos, appeals, and presents oral arguments to courts

Conducts preliminary attorney conferences

Interacts with other internal departments, police and external agencies and general public

Performs duties of the Chief Public Defender in the absence of the Chief Public Defender and First Assistant Public Defender

Visits mental hospitals, jails and state correctional facilities if client is detained

Conducts legal research in preparation of cases and trials

Negotiates plea-bargains with District Attorney for clients

Utilizes computer for docketing, drafting letters and other legal correspondence or reports

Attends staffing and training sessions

Advises public groups of the functions of the office

Travels as necessary for trial preparations