Entry-Level Public Defender—Courtroom Advocate

City of Indianapolis and Marion County; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Indianapolis and Marion County seeks an attorney to provide effective representation of indigent clients in criminal, juvenile, and appellate matters. You will exercise independent judgment in complex cases, work under state and federal laws, and coordinate with families, witnesses, and experts.

The role requires a Juris Doctorate, a valid license to practice law, and strong communication skills. You will report to the Division Chief and contribute to an ethical, service-oriented public

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate and license to practice law required.
• Strong verbal, written, communication and presentation skills.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Appears in court to provide effective representation of indigent clients in civil contempt proceedings, CHINS proceedings, mental health court, or misdemeanor offenses in adult, juvenile, or appellate courts.
• Conducts legal and factual review of cases; evaluates evidence; engages in pretrial motion practice; takes and defends depositions.
• Consults with client, interviews witnesses, and consults with medical, forensic, DNA or other experts as needed to effectively represent client.
• Negotiates case disposition including plea agreements and other dispositions; litigates to court or tries cases before a jury.
• Communicates with clients through telephone, in-person interviews, and jail consultations.
• Reviews and updates court files; keeps client and families updated on progress.
• Delegates assignments to paralegal I and investigators as appropriate.
• Collaborates with social workers on multi-disciplinary strategies to achieve client objectives.
• Must maintain confidentiality at all times.
• This list may be expanded with other duties as needed by management.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Presentation skills

Interpersonal skills

Computer knowledge

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

City of Indianapolis and Marion County seeks an attorney to provide effective representation of indigent clients in criminal, juvenile, and appellate matters. You will exercise independent judgment in complex cases, work under state and federal laws, and coordinate with families, witnesses, and experts.

The role requires a Juris Doctorate, a valid license to practice law, and strong communication skills. You will report to the Division Chief and contribute to an ethical, service-oriented public