DISTRICT COURT DEPUTY DA

About the Role

Participates in the prosecution of criminal law violations in the judicial district. Conducts criminal felony trials, drafts and responds to legal motions, researches legal issues, analyzes cases for prosecution, and represents the State in various legal proceedings.

Responsibilities

• Analyze self-defense claims for credibility of witnesses and other facts in case; make plea offers.
• Ensure victims are properly notified of court hearings and solicit their input on case dispositions pursuant to the Victim Rights Act.
• Draft deferred judgment and sentence plea agreements.
• Review new cases, evaluate factual situations, and apply legal principles to determine if the facts constitute a crime.
• Prepare for and conduct criminal felony trials, including jury selection, witness preparation, and legal arguments.
• Represent the State in contested hearings, argue factual and constitutional issues, and present witnesses.
• Research legal issues related to arrest, search and seizure, constitutional rights, and procedural matters.
• Analyze cases presented by law enforcement, determine necessary investigations, and draft charges.
• Prepare and present witnesses at preliminary hearings and argue for further prosecution of charges.
• Review victim impact statements, compute restitution, and represent victims at restitution hearings.
• Endorse and subpoena witnesses for trials.
• Review criminal cases for disposition, considering case strength, defendant background, and victim impact.
• Present facts and legal arguments to support sentencing and restitution.
• Prosecute probation violations and represent the State in post-conviction remedy motions.
• Assist in jury selection and participate in sentencing.
• Represent the Department of Revenue in Department of Motor Vehicle appeals.
• Research and prepare appellate briefs for the Colorado Court of Appeals and Supreme Court.
• Analyze bond appropriateness, argue for bond forfeiture or revocation, and prepare legal pleadings.
• Meet with judges, law enforcement, probation, and the public to resolve judicial system issues.
• Supervise support personnel and assist law enforcement agencies with promotional review boards.
• Train and advise law enforcement on arrest, search and seizure, and procedural issues.
• Serve on 24-hour call for questions and advice on a rotational basis.
• Attend continuing education opportunities.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience: Juris Doctorate and three (3) years of related experience. Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Licenses and Certifications: Current Colorado Supreme Court license to practice law.

Physical Requirements and Working Environment

This position requires standing, stooping, sitting, bending, twisting, and lifting up to 10 pounds. Work is generally confined to a standard office environment.

Additional Notes

The District Attorney's Office allows for pay increases based on seniority, merit, incentives, and education/training/experience.

Specialized Roles

• District Court Deputy District Attorney II: Achieved proficiency in the District Court Deputy District Attorney position. Demonstrates professionalism and composure in an adversarial system, handling contentious dealings with opposing counsel, defendants, victims, and law enforcement.
• District Court Deputy District Attorney Assigned To Juvenile Court: Identifies high-risk offenders, communicates with community stakeholders, seeks process improvements, participates in community partnerships, teaches Children's Code, and collaborates with paralegals and victim specialists.