Criminal Defense Attorney I - Public Defender

Ottawa County; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Prorated benefits

Job summary

Ottawa County is seeking a dedicated Deputy Public Defender to provide exceptional legal representation to indigent adult defendants at first appearances and subsequent proceedings on misdemeanors, with potential assignment to low-severity felonies. The role is full-time, with standard weekday hours at two Michigan locations, Holland and Grand Haven.

Candidates should have a JD, Michigan Bar admission, and a demonstrated commitment to serving indigent clients.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree plus Juris Doctor and admission to the Michigan Bar.
• Experience in criminal defense is preferred but not required.
• Commitment to providing high-quality legal services to indigent adults.

Responsibilities

• Provide counsel to indigent adults charged with crimes; prepare for court appearances and draft briefs.
• Represent clients at arraignments, pre-trial conferences, examinations, motions, bench and jury trials; present evidence and arguments.
• Collaborate with prosecutors, law enforcement, courts, and investigators to ensure thorough investigations and effective defense.

Skills

Legal research

Criminal law

Court appearances

Client interviewing

Written communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Juris Doctor (JD) with Bar admission

Tools

Word processing

Spreadsheet

Database management

Internet applications

Job description

Ottawa County is seeking a dedicated Deputy Public Defender to provide exceptional legal representation to indigent adult defendants at first appearances and subsequent proceedings on misdemeanors, with potential assignment to low-severity felonies. The role is full-time, with standard weekday hours at two Michigan locations, Holland and Grand Haven.

Candidates should have a JD, Michigan Bar admission, and a demonstrated commitment to serving indigent clients.