Deputy Public Defender

Branch County; Coldwater (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Short-term disability

14 paid holidays

Pension plans

Job summary

Branch County Public Defender's Office in Coldwater, MI seeks an attorney to provide court-appointed indigent defense services. The role involves handling an active caseload, meeting clients, reviewing charging instruments, police reports and other discoveries.

Responsibilities include researching and preparing criminal cases for trial, appearing in court, negotiating resolutions when possible, and preparing legal documents while maintaining professional knowledge of criminal law.

Qualifications

• A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and must be in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan.
• No experience is required, but familiarity with criminal law and procedure is expected.
• Computer skills to use word processing, databases, spreadsheets and presentation software, plus Internet and e-mail.

Responsibilities

• Provides court appointed indigent defense services through an active caseload and consults with clients.
• Researches and prepares criminal cases for trial, motions, sentencing, and other proceedings.
• Appears in court for arraignments, motions, trials, and sentencing.
• Determines if additional investigation is needed and coordinates experts as approved by the Chief Public Defender.
• Prepares briefs, legal documents, reports, and correspondence.

Skills

Criminal law knowledge

Oral & written communication

Interpersonal skills

Reasoning

Attention to detail

Confidential information handling

Driving license

Professionalism

Education

Juris Doctorate

State Bar of Michigan admission

Tools

Word processing

Databases

Spreadsheets

Presentations

Job description

Location Branch County's Public Defender's Office

Description

Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Chief Public Defender provides court appointed indigent defense attorney services for Branch County.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Provides court appointed indigent defense services through an active caseload. Meets and consults with client(s), reviews charging instruments, police reports, and other discoveries.
• Research and prepares criminal cases for trial, motion, sentencing and other proceedings. This includes research on applicable law, interviewing victims and witnesses, investigating claims, and developing trial strategies.
• Appears in court arraignments, motions, trials, sentencing and other related proceedings.
• Determines if additional investigation is necessary, including the identification, consultation and hiring of applicable experts as approved by the Chief Public Defender.
• Prepares briefs, legal documents, reports, correspondence and other written materials.
• Attempts to negotiate and resolve pending cases without a trial where appropriate.
• Maintains professional knowledge of criminal law, participates in training programs, and collaborates with other Assistant Public Defenders.
• Performs other duties as required.

Job Qualifications

• A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school. Membership in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan. Recent graduates who have taken the Michigan Bar Exam with high expectations of passing may also apply.
• No experience is required; however, familiarity with criminal law and procedure is expected.
• Computer skills necessary to effectively utilize word processing, databases, spreadsheet and presentation software applications for the creation and compilation of various documents, communications and reports. Ability to use the Internet and e-mail.
• Possess a valid Michigan vehicle operator’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Strong interpersonal skills are necessary to work with a diverse group of county personnel and citizens.
• The ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing, including reading and interpreting documents, prepare reports and correspondence, and to present information and respond to questions.
• Reasoning skills needed to define and solve problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Mental ability to simultaneously handle multiple projects requiring concentration and attention to detail with frequent disruptions. Frequent pressures related to deadlines and fulfilling scheduling requirements.
• Professionalism is an absolute necessity, along with the ability to appropriately handle both confidential information and sensitive situations.

Deputy Chief Public Defender

Location: Coldwater, MI

About the Organization

Branch County Government is dedicated to serving our community with integrity, accountability, and respect. We deliver statutory and constitutional services in a fiscally responsible manner that honors the trust and dignity of every County resident. Guided by public need and sound stewardship, we thoughtfully evaluate and prioritize services to ensure they strengthen our community today and for generations to come.

Our work is grounded in protecting public safety, enhancing the well-being of our citizens, preserving and improving our natural resources, and fostering economic opportunity for all. We believe strong communities are built through collaboration, transparency, and a commitment to doing what is right.

As stewards of both people and public resources, Branch County Government values and promotes equal opportunity for all. We actively encourage the talents, creativity, and leadership of our employees and strive to create a workplace where individuals feel respected, supported, and empowered to make a meaningful impact. Our employees are committed to delivering services that are prompt, courteous, efficient, and centered on public trust.

Branch County Government is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability insurance. Employees enjoy generous sick and vacation time, 14 paid holidays for most positions, and access to pension plans and additional retirement options. We are committed to supporting our employees’ well-being, work-life balance, and long‑term financial security.

EOE Statement

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

This position is currently accepting applications.