PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Position Information

Job Series: Public Defenders
Classification: Public Defender I – Career Path
Class Code: LPD03P
Pay Grade: SPC03
Salary Range: $71,027 - $105,120

Primary Responsibilities

• Meet or exceed the requirements for position of Public Defender I
• Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law
• Develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, prior to or upon conclusion of probationary period of nine (9) months
• Provide legal advice and counsel to clients regarding their rights, case developments, and available options
• Develop case strategies, including preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence to ensure the best possible defense for clients
• Handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases, with a focus on both adult and juvenile defendants as required
• Maintain constant communication with clients to keep them informed of case status and legal options, providing clear explanations in an understandable manner
• Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board’s review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives
• Conduct thorough investigations into all aspects of each case, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts
• Review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess the strength of the case and identify defense strategies
• Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents to support clients’ defense
• Perform legal research to stay up-to-date with criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies to ensure effective defense in court
• Work closely with other attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff within the Public Defender's Office to provide the best possible defense for clients
• Represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials
• Negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel, ensuring clients' best interests are considered in the negotiation process
• Report case dispositions on or before the last day of every month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the Commission
• Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law

Knowledge And Skills

• In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as federal criminal law as applicable
• Strong legal research skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies
• Ability to quickly assess case details, identify key issues, and formulate strong arguments for the defense
• Strong public speaking skills, including the ability to argue motions, present cases to judges and juries, and deliver persuasive closing arguments
• Comfortable managing courtroom dynamics and effectively engaging with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel

Minimum Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
• Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership