Public Defender 2 - Des Moines Juvenile - PTPF

About the role

The Iowa State Public Defender’s Office is seeking a Public Defender 2 for the Project to Preserve Families in Polk County, Iowa. The Project to Preserve Families utilizes a team of professionals to provide access to legal and family-centered services to prevent court involvement and subsequent removals.

Responsibilities

• Assist families to address issues such as child custody, guardianship and conservatorships, Chapter 236 protective orders, landlord/tenant issues, basic criminal matters, and other issues as approved by the State Public Defender.
• Work closely with clients, providing and discussing information, planning case strategy, and preparing trial materials.
• Maintain appropriate communication with clients regarding case status and answering their questions.
• Identify potential legal issues, research applicable law, and draft appropriate motions and briefs.
• Prepare various legal documents, motions, briefs, and letters.
• Maintain client case files, prepare public defender time reports to the court, and close files consistent with office policies.
• Receive training and mentoring from experienced public defenders in an environment that encourages growth and development of skills and career advancement.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited law school and possession of a current license to practice law in the State of Iowa.
• Experience equal to two years of full-time work in professional legal criminal trial advocacy or prosecution.
• Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes eighteen months of full-time work as a Public Defender 1.

Qualifications

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum qualifications:

• Graduation from an accredited law school, possession of a current license to practice law in the State of Iowa, and experience equal to two years of full-time work in professional legal criminal trial advocacy or prosecution.
• A current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes eighteen months of full-time work as a Public Defender 1.

Skills

Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is required. Knowledge of Iowa law and procedures is preferred.

Benefits

The State of Iowa offers a competitive total compensation package, including robust benefits, generous paid time off, opportunities for professional development, and flexible spending accounts. Employees also have access to an on-site employee fitness center, employee assistance programs, and discounts from various vendors.

Pay

Details on pay are not specified in the job posting.

Schedule

Details on the schedule are not specified in the job posting.