PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 9TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21011195

Duties

• Accepting, reviewing, researching, and preparing assigned cases in an efficient and expeditious manner.
• Advising and counseling clients regarding plea offers, constitutional rights, legal options, defense strategies, sentencing exposure, and appellate rights.
• Establishing and maintaining professional relationships with clients, their families, witnesses, court personnel, and other stakeholders.
• Maintaining open lines of communication with clients and relevant parties throughout the life of the case.
• Appropriately involving investigators, disposition specialists, interns, and other support staff in case preparation.
• Seeking and coordinating expert assistance when necessary.
• Demonstrating maturity, professionalism, and sound judgment at all times.
• Handling emergency assignments as needed.
• Attending and participating in required training seminars, division meetings, and staffing sessions.
• Complying with all policies and procedures outlined in the Public Defender’s Office manual.
• Performing other related duties as required.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Must be a member in good standing with The Florida Bar upon start date.
• Working knowledge of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure and applicable criminal statutes.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with clients, colleagues, and court personnel.
• Proficiency in correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions and established procedures.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict deadlines.
• Sound judgment and strong listening skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload using an online case management system.
• Willingness to travel to the jail or juvenile detention center to meet with clients.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team of attorneys, investigators, and legal assistants.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and upholding ethical standards consistent with Florida Bar guidelines.

Additional Information

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735).

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.