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Berrien County Public Defender's Office - Assistant Public Defender I in St Joseph, Michigan

Assistant Public Defender I

  • $61,163 - $81,964/ Year
  • Full Benefits Package

Duties:

  • Provides court-appointed indigent defense services within Berrien County Courts.
  • Carries a full caseload as determined by the Chief Public Defender.
  • Attends legal and community meetings.
  • Reviews charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery provided by the prosecution.
  • Promptly meets with clients to learn the client's goals for the representation and any special needs of the client.
  • Determines what further fact investigation to undertake and directs that investigation.
  • Determines what legal issues need development and researches those issues.
  • Negotiates with the prosecution and promptly advises the client of the status of those negotiations.
  • Litigates any legal issues that are necessary and appropriate, including bringing cases to trial.
  • Conducts any post-trial litigation. Performs duty-attorney functions as assigned.
  • This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified. 

Education and Experience:

  • Graduation from an accredited law school.
  • Must be a member of the Michigan State Bar in good standing.
  • At least one year of criminal defense experience or comparable civil legal services is desired.

Special Requirements:

  • Must successfully pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to a vehicle.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

  • Ability to operate technology and typical office equipment.
  • Able to utilize the services of interpreters when necessary.
  • Effective communication skills, with the ability to relate empathetically to clients with diverse backgrounds and special needs.
  • Must exercise common sense and good judgment.
  • Able to maintain confidentiality with highly sensitive information.
  • Ability to learn quickly, multitask, and function efficiently under stressful and distracting conditions.
  • Work independently as well as cooperatively in a legal services team atmosphere.

Note:

  • APDs may participate only in Berrien County Public Defender Office assigned legal work for compensation during their employment, with the exception of cases obtained prior to employment with the office.
  • Permission of the Chief Public Defender is required to continue representation on prior non-BCPD cases and/or to be involved in active representation on a pro bono basis.
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