Assistant Prosecutor

Oakland County; Pontiac (MI); Hybrid; USD 77,000 - 103,000; Full time

Job summary

Oakland County in Michigan is seeking an Assistant Prosecutor I to begin a career in public service, gaining valuable courtroom experience while serving the community.

This hybrid position offers opportunities to handle cases, evaluate evidence, prepare warrants, conduct legal research, and appear in court under guidance from experienced prosecutors.

Qualifications

• Experience in criminal law and procedure helpful
• Pre-employment screening and fingerprinting may be required
• Promotion pathways exist within the Prosecuting Attorney's Department

Responsibilities

• Handle beginning-level criminal cases and gain hands-on experience throughout the prosecution process.
• Review and evaluate evidence to determine appropriate legal action and support charging decisions.
• Conduct legal research and prepare briefs, motions, and other legal documents.
• Present cases in court and develop practical experience in courtroom procedures, advocacy, and case presentation.

Job description

Overview & Benefits Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan's leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents. When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit: https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

$76,650 - $102,696

This is a hybrid position

Are you ready to begin your career as an assistant prosecutor and gain meaningful courtroom experience while serving your community?

This is an opportunity to build a strong foundation as an assistant prosecuting attorney by handling cases, evaluating evidence, preparing warrants, conducting legal research, and appearing in court.

Working under the guidance of experienced legal professionals, you'll develop your skills while supporting the fair and effective prosecution of criminal matters.

What You'll Do

• Handle beginning-level criminal cases and gain hands-on experience throughout the prosecution process.
• Review and evaluate evidence to determine appropriate legal action and support charging decisions.
• Conduct legal research and prepare briefs, motions, and other legal documents.
• Present cases in court and develop practical experience in courtroom procedures, advocacy, and case presentation.
• Work closely with law enforcement agencies and provide legal guidance regarding criminal investigations and enforcement matters.
• Review case information and documentation to ensure materials are accurate, complete, and prepared for legal proceedings.
• Collaborate with attorneys, law enforcement professionals, court personnel, and other criminal justice partners.
• Utilize Countywide and department-specific technology and software to manage cases and complete assignments.

Why You'll Love It

• Build valuable courtroom and litigation experience early in your legal career.
• Develop practical skills in case evaluation, legal research, warrant preparation, and criminal prosecution.
• Learn from experienced prosecutors while building greater knowledge and confidence handling cases.
• Work directly with law enforcement and other partners throughout the criminal justice system.
• Gain broad exposure to prosecutorial work and establish a strong foundation for continued growth within the legal profession.
• Make a meaningful contribution to public safety and the Oakland County community through a career in public service.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Under the Merit System Resolution, Section II, adopted November 8, 1966, employees in this class are excluded from the Merit System for the purpose of the manner of selection, appointment, removal from office or limitation of political activity.

Assistant Prosecutor I's are not exempted from having to comply with the provisions of Merit System Rule 16 (Pre-employment Screening) detailing the required fingerprinting, furnishing of education and employment references, and the employment medical examination prior to the effective date of appointment.

NOTE: Employees who have satisfactorily performed for at least one (1) year as an Assistant Prosecutor I are eligible for consideration for promotion to Assistant Prosecutor II.

Current employees or applicants who have demonstrated a proficiency in criminal law and procedure due to previous applicable work experience, an outstanding academic record or work performance may be promoted to Assistant Prosecutor II prior to completion of one (1) year as an Assistant Prosecutor I.

Special Requirements

Must remain in good standing with the Michigan Bar.

Supervision Exercised

Generally none. May instruct, assign and review work of lower level professional and/or clerical employees.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Reviews facts and evidence presented by law enforcement agencies regarding alleged violations of state criminal laws of an uncomplicated and non-serious nature and determines whether a warrant should be authorized by the Prosecuting Attorney.
• Determines the proper criminal charges and, using the appropriate legal language, prepares arrest warrants and other necessary legal documents in connection with such charges.
• Advises law enforcement agencies of the proper legal procedures to be followed in the investigation of alleged criminal conduct of an uncomplicated and non-serious nature.
• Assists law enforcement agencies in their investigations by drafting any necessary legal documents, such as electronic surveillance warrants, subpoenas, search warrants and affidavits.
• Handles citizen complaints to the Prosecuting Attorney's Department concerning a wide range of problems and attempts to resolve the complaints by a non-criminal disposition, such as a referral to an appropriate agency, or by the issuance of an arrest warrant.
• Conducts District Court trials of state law misdemeanor cases, involving interviewing victims, police officers and other witnesses; reviewing physical evidence; researching legal issues; and completing any preparation necessary for the effective prosecution of the case.
• Conducts preliminary examinations in felony cases.
• Appears in District Courts on behalf of the people of the State of Michigan in all legal proceedings required by law or court rule, including arraignments, bond hearings, evidentiary hearings and sentencings.
• Prepares pleadings and takes the legal steps necessary in connection with such proceedings.
• Negotiates pleas or other appropriate dispositions with defense attorneys on pending criminal matters consistent with the law and departmental policy.
• Under close supervision, prepares legal pleadings and written briefs in criminal appeals of an uncomplicated nature and presents oral arguments in connection with such appeals.
• Represents the people of the State of Michigan in Probate Court hearings involving juvenile delinquency matters and neglect and abuse cases.
• Prepares legal pleadings and appears in the District or Circuit Courts in connection with paternity suits, proceedings under the Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support Act, or other matters handled by the Family Support Division of the Prosecuting Attorney's Department, if assigned to that division.
• Utilizes current county-wide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

IMPORTANT NOTE

The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

Union* *If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace.

All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD. At Oakland County, we offer a stable and supportive work environment, competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, professional development, and generous education assistance program. We value the dedication and hard work of our team and our commitment to the communities we serve - it's at the heart of our success. We're always seeking new ways to enhance our workplace and foster a culture of growth, inclusion, and innovation. We believe that our people are our greatest asset, and our future depends on the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents of our team.