Deputy Public Defender: Trials & Training Leader

miOttawa.org; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Ottawa County’s Public Defender Office is seeking a full-time, benefited administrator to support the public defender and oversee legal services for defendants unable to retain counsel. The role involves supervising staff, managing budgets, coordinating legal strategy, and ensuring compliance with ABA and SBM standards.

The ideal candidate holds a JD with Michigan bar admission, an undergraduate degree, and at least ten years of criminal or governmental law experience, with progressive

Qualifications

• Under the direction of the Public Defender, provides administrative and managerial assistance to the Public Defender Office.
• Demonstrates knowledge of management, supervision, finance/budget, and office administration to maximize operational effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Assist in development and implementation of goals, policies and programs for the department.
• Provide legal counsel to clients; prepare for court appearances and represent clients in court.
• Supervise staff including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Coordinate department budgeting and monitor expenditures within guidelines.
• Direct attorneys in gathering and analyzing case evidence and presenting in court.
• Maintain accurate legal records and files; prepare briefs and other written materials.
• Interact with law enforcement, courts, private attorneys and agencies to ensure quality defense services.

Skills

Management/Supervision

Budget/Finance

Office Administration

Planning/Organizing

Written communication

Verbal communication

Interpersonal skills

Legal research

Criminal law knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree (business/criminal law preferred)

Juris Doctor with State Bar Michigan admission

Tools

Word processing

Spreadsheet

Database management

Internet applications

Job description

Ottawa County’s Public Defender Office is seeking a full-time, benefited administrator to support the public defender and oversee legal services for defendants unable to retain counsel. The role involves supervising staff, managing budgets, coordinating legal strategy, and ensuring compliance with ABA and SBM standards.

The ideal candidate holds a JD with Michigan bar admission, an undergraduate degree, and at least ten years of criminal or governmental law experience, with progressive