Misdemeanor Public Defender Attorney — Training & Benefits

Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers; Painesville (OH); On-site; USD 68,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-the-Job Training

Public Employees Retirement System

Health Insurance

Life Insurance

Deferred Compensation

Paid Time Off

Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

Lake County Public Defender in Painesville, OH is seeking a full-time Assistant Defender for the Misdemeanor Division. The role involves representing indigent clients in misdemeanor cases and handling all stages of the criminal process. The office emphasizes zealous advocacy and protecting constitutional rights, with a team-oriented approach.

Required is a J.D. from an accredited law school and a current Ohio license to practice law. Typical hours are 8:00 a.m.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in Ohio.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Legal research, writing and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a caseload effectively.
• Commitment to providing quality legal representation to underprivileged individuals.
• Knowledge of criminal law and procedures, evidence and ethics.
• Excellent judgment and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Represent indigent clients in misdemeanor cases at all stages of the criminal process.
• Conduct client interviews and gather information for case preparation.
• Review discovery and coordinate investigations with staff.
• Research and analyze legal issues related to assigned cases.
• Draft legal documents for court filings.
• Negotiate plea agreements with prosecutors when appropriate.
• Advocate for clients' rights and best interests throughout the process.
• Collaborate with defense team, investigators, paralegals and interns.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Legal research

Oral advocacy

Independent work

Caseload management

Ethics

Interpersonal skills

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Job description

Lake County Public Defender in Painesville, OH is seeking a full-time Assistant Defender for the Misdemeanor Division. The role involves representing indigent clients in misdemeanor cases and handling all stages of the criminal process. The office emphasizes zealous advocacy and protecting constitutional rights, with a team-oriented approach.

Required is a J.D. from an accredited law school and a current Ohio license to practice law. Typical hours are 8:00 a.m.