Assistant Public Defender I

County of Kent; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

County of Kent is seeking an Assistant Public Defender I to provide comprehensive legal representation for individuals who cannot afford an attorney. You will work under supervision to defend clients charged with misdemeanors and felonies, focusing on indigent defense and holistic services.

The role requires admission or eligibility to practice in Michigan within six months, plus a valid Michigan driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Must have strong ability to evaluate evidence and interview witnesses
• Proficient in legal research and drafting court filings
• Able to present case materials effectively in court
• Develops and communicates case strategy clearly to clients and team

Responsibilities

• Evaluating evidence in cases and identifying key issues
• Interviewing necessary parties and witnesses for case development
• Conducting legal research to support defense strategies
• Drafting any necessary court filings and motions
• Presenting case materials in court and advocating for clients
• Handling a high proportion of misdemeanors with some low-severity felonies

Skills

Evaluating evidence

Interviewing witnesses

Legal research

Drafting court filings

Oral advocacy

Education

Undergraduate degree + Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Law

Job description

Join Kent County's Office of the Public Defender and make a meaningful impact by providing comprehensive legal representation to individuals in need. Work in a collaborative environment with experienced professionals, contributing to holistic defense services and innovative legal practices. Be a part of a dedicated team committed to upholding justice and serving indigent communities.

The Assistant Public Defender I is a professional legal role providing representation to individuals charged with misdemeanors and felonies who cannot afford to hire an attorney.

Responsibilities

• Evaluating evidence
• Interviewing necessary parties
• Researching
• Writing any necessary court filings
• Presenting case materials in court
• More than 50% of the cases are misdemeanor; low severity felonies may also be present

Work is performed under general supervision in this team-oriented office.

Requirements

• Must be a member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan and eligible to practice before Michigan and Federal Courts, and/or the capability of becoming licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan within six months of hire.
• Must possess a valid Michigan Driver’s License.

Required Education

• Possession of an undergraduate degree plus a Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Law degree from an ABA accredited institution or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Kent County offers job security, competitive pay, excellent benefits, and opportunities for growth.