Deputy District Attorney

16th Judicial District Attorney's Office; La Junta (CO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The 16th Judicial District Attorney's Office in La Junta, CO is seeking a Deputy District Attorney to prosecute criminal cases from filing to disposition. You will review law enforcement reports, determine charges, prepare and file motions, and handle arraignments, hearings, and trials.

You will negotiate plea agreements, advise law enforcement, conduct research, prepare briefs, and appear in county and district courts.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school and Colorado license or eligibility
• Strong knowledge of Criminal Law and related issues
• Experience with law enforcement, reviewing reports and investigations
• Familiarity with court procedures, rules of evidence, and courtroom advocacy
• Effective written and oral advocacy, including drafting motions
• Ability to manage a substantial caseload and meet deadlines
• Commitment to victim rights and community safety

Responsibilities

• Prosecuting criminal cases from initial filing through disposition
• Reviewing law enforcement reports and determining appropriate charges
• Preparing and filing motions, handling arraignments, hearings, and trials
• Negotiating plea agreements and interacting with victims and witnesses
• Providing legal guidance to law enforcement and ensuring constitutional compliance
• Conducting legal research, preparing briefs, and appearing in courts

Skills

Criminal Law

Evidence Rules

Courtroom Advocacy

Legal Research

Collaboration

Policy & Ethics

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) - Accredited Law School

Colorado Bar License or Eligibility

Job description

Company Description

The 16th Judicial District Attorney’s Office prosecutes violations of Colorado state criminal law occurring in Bent, Crowley, and Otero Counties. The office is dedicated to pursuing justice for victims through fair, ethical, and consistent prosecution of offenses within its jurisdiction. Team members work closely with law enforcement, courts, and community partners to promote public safety and trust. The organization values integrity, fairness, and a strong commitment to the communities it serves, providing a professional environment focused on accountability and service. Applicants can expect a mission-driven workplace where ethical practice and community impact are central priorities.

Role Description

The Deputy District Attorney is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases from initial filing through disposition in the 16th Judicial District. Day-to-day tasks include reviewing law enforcement reports, determining appropriate charges, preparing and filing motions, and handling arraignments, preliminary hearings, motions hearings, and trials. The role involves negotiating plea agreements, interacting with victims and witnesses, providing legal guidance to law enforcement, and ensuring compliance with constitutional and ethical requirements. The Deputy District Attorney also conducts legal research, prepares briefs, and appears regularly in county and district courts. This is a full-time, on-site role located in La Junta, CO.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of Criminal Law, Criminal Justice, and related Legal Issues applicable to Colorado state statutes
• Experience working with Law Enforcement agencies, including reviewing reports and advising on investigations
• Familiarity with Courts procedures, rules of evidence, and courtroom advocacy in criminal proceedings
• Ability to assess complex legal issues, exercise sound prosecutorial discretion, and apply relevant case law
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and license to practice law in Colorado, or eligibility for admission
• Effective written and oral advocacy skills, including drafting motions and presenting arguments in court
• Strong ethical judgment, professionalism, and commitment to victim rights and community safety
• Ability to manage a substantial caseload, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team
• Prior prosecution or criminal defense experience is preferred but not required