Public Defender: Criminal Defense & Appeals Advocate

County of Berks, PA; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

County of Berks, PA seeks a Public Defender to provide legal representation for indigent clients at various hearings, appeals, and juvenile court proceedings. You will represent clients in criminal matters, consult with them, and prepare defenses.

The position requires a Juris Doctorate, admission to the Pennsylvania Bar, and the ability to work independently, manage stress, and travel within the county as needed.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school is required.
• Admission to the Pennsylvania Bar is required.
• No experience required, but knowledge of criminal law is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation, consultation, and advice to clients.
• Represent clients during criminal investigative hearings.
• Prepare a defense, conduct legal research, gather facts, and interview the client.
• Work closely with clients, provide and discuss information, strategies and developments.
• Write motions, and legal arguments.
• Handle pretrial, motions, and appeals.
• Handle sentencing and negotiate plea bargains.
• Handle other related duties and responsibilities as assigned on occasion.
• Train to provide back-up to other positions, if needed.
• Occasional travel in-and-around the county, state and region may be required to conduct essential elements of the job.

Skills

Criminal law knowledge

Windows-based software

Problem solving

Oratory skills

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Stress management

Office presence

Legal research

Education

Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited Law School

Admission to the Pennsylvania Bar

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

County of Berks, PA seeks a Public Defender to provide legal representation for indigent clients at various hearings, appeals, and juvenile court proceedings. You will represent clients in criminal matters, consult with them, and prepare defenses.

The position requires a Juris Doctorate, admission to the Pennsylvania Bar, and the ability to work independently, manage stress, and travel within the county as needed.