PUBLIC DEFENDER III

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide advanced legal representation to clients accused of serious criminal offenses, including violent crimes, complex drug offenses, white-collar crimes, and other high-stakes felony cases within the Circuit Court, Criminal Division, for individuals charged as adults.
• Handle all aspects of the defense process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trial advocacy, and post-conviction matters such as appeals and petitions for relief in matters where he/she was attorney of record at the trial stage.
• Develop and implement strategic defense plans, incorporating legal research, client interviews, expert testimony, and case law to build robust defenses.
• Represent clients in hearings, trials, and post-conviction proceedings, delivering compelling arguments, examining witnesses, and managing complex evidence.
• Guide clients through the legal process, ensuring that they are fully informed about their options and their rights, while advocating for the best possible legal outcomes.
• Document all plea offers received from the prosecution have been conveyed to the client for consideration.
• Conduct case reviews and provide feedback to less experienced attorneys, ensuring that they develop their legal skills and expertise.
• When possible, appear at trial with less experienced attorneys to provide guidance.
• Manage a caseload of complex, high-profile criminal cases, ensuring that each case is handled efficiently, thoroughly, and with attention to detail.
• Actively pursue the experience and criteria necessary to be considered for lead or co-counsel in cases where client is charged with Capital Murder.
• Develop case strategies tailored to individual circumstances, preparing all necessary legal documentation, including motions, legal briefs, and responses to the prosecution.
• Monitor deadlines, manage case schedules, and ensure timely submission of legal filings, motions, and other required documentation to the court.
• Conduct direct and cross-examinations of witnesses, present evidence, and deliver persuasive opening and closing statements.
• Prepare clients for testimony and court appearances, explaining the process and ensuring they are emotionally and mentally prepared.
• Conduct advanced legal research to support case strategies, reviewing statutes, case law, and legal precedents to develop innovative defense strategies.
• Collaborate with expert witnesses, investigators, and other specialists to gather evidence and build a comprehensive defense.
• Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in area of criminal law with a concentration in defending violent felonies.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school, plus five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney, with a focus on criminal defense, public defense, or related legal experience.
• Prior experience handling felony cases and trials is strongly preferred.
• Licensure/Certifications: Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership.