Attorney I - Public Defense Services

Pima County; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Pima County is hiring for the position of Attorney I within the Public Defense Services Department. The role involves prosecuting or defending a variety of criminal and civil cases across multiple courts including Justice and Federal Courts, alongside responsibilities such as legal research, preparing documents, and engaging in trials.

Applicants must possess a Juris Doctorate, be admitted to the Arizona State Bar, and hold a valid Arizona Class D driver license. The position requires excellent negotiation skills and a commitment to the ethical standards of the profession.

Qualifications

• Must hold a Juris Doctorate and be admitted to the Arizona State Bar.
• Valid Arizona Class D driver license is required at the time of application.
• Experience in civil litigation and ability to engage with clients and witnesses.

Responsibilities

• Prosecute or defend cases in various courts.
• Represent County departments in civil litigation.
• Research and draft legal documents and motions.

Skills

Prosecutorial skills

Litigation

Legal research

Negotiation

Trial practice

Education

Juris Doctorate

Admission to the Arizona State Bar

Job description

Job Description

Public Defense Services Department – Attorney I

Essential Functions

• Prosecutes or defends a variety of criminal or civil cases in Justice Court, Juvenile Court, Superior Court, Federal Court, and Appellate Courts, including felony, misdemeanor, dependency, delinquency, mental health, guardianship, conservatorship, probate administration, contract, tort, environmental, real estate, tax issues, child support, and appellate cases.
• Represents County departments, boards and commissions in civil litigation and administrative matters.
• Engages in negotiations for compromise and settlement of cases and complies with Victims’ Rights.
• Engages in pretrial, trial, post-trial and appellate practice as required by cases.
• Prepares litigation, deposes witnesses, provides witness notification, and conducts bench and jury trials.
• Researches legal questions.
• Researches and drafts legal motions, pleadings, briefs and other legal documents.
• Reviews, evaluates, and participates in investigations.
• Complies with all rules regulating professional responsibility.
• Upholds the values and goals of the assigned Department and County.

Minimum Qualifications

Juris Doctorate. Qualifying education and experience must be clearly documented in the "Education" and "Work Experience" sections of the application. Admission to the Arizona State Bar at time of appointment, which must be maintained in good standing. A valid Arizona Class D driver license at the time of application or appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge and appropriate application of systems, policies, and procedures of Pima County. Additional assessments of current and previous Pima County employees may be conducted.

Supplemental Information

• Admission to the Arizona State Bar at time of appointment.
• Valid Arizona Class D driver license at the time of application or appointment.
• Pre‑employment background checks, including verification of work history, education and criminal conviction history.

Physical/Sensory Requirements

Frequent computer use and office equipment. Close observation of details. Frequently speaking to clients, witnesses, and other parties in person and/or by phone. Regular office work. Occasional driving for field work. Occasional lifting of items, remaining stationary, or moving within the office.

Working Conditions

Regular, daily attendance is essential. Regular responses to telephone calls, text messages and emails. Driving to visit clients and witnesses at residences or jails, and other locations for discussions with case parties.

EEO Information

Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications are screened based on qualifications; applicants meeting the minimum requirements may be further evaluated for preferred qualifications. No discrimination is allowed on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, familial status, political affiliation, or any other protected characteristic.