Public Defender: Junior Criminal Defense Attorney

National Legal Aid & Defender Association; Santa Maria (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vacation 12–25 days/year

Holidays 12 days/year

Sick leave 12 days/year (unlimited)

Health plan options

On-site health clinics

Public sector retirement reciprocity

Job summary

The County of Santa Barbara Public Defender’s Office is seeking a qualified attorney to interview, advise, and represent clients in criminal and civil cases. You will structure investigations, prepare trials, pleadings, and motions, and argue cases before court and jury while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

Ideal candidates will have experience in the legal field, strong Microsoft Office skills, and the ability to manage a heavy caseload.

Qualifications

• Experience in the legal field.
• Strong conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to manage a fluctuating and heavy caseload.
• Excellent customer service skills and experience working with the public.
• Ability to prepare and write clear and concise motions, and keep records organized.
• Bilingual English & Spanish and/or Mixteco is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Interviews clients regarding prospective criminal or civil actions and advises them of their rights and legal options; structures and directs investigations; reviews evidence; interviews witnesses and prepares them to testify.
• Conducts legal research; analyzes statutes, case law, evidence, and other relevant information to develop case strategies.
• Prepares for trials; negotiates with prosecuting authorities on disposition and modification of cases; appears in court hearings, makes motions and arguments; participates in jury selection; makes final arguments in defense.
• Prepares petitions, briefs, arguments, motions, pleadings, and corresponding documents; argues in appropriate forums.

Skills

Legal knowledge

Microsoft Office

Customer service

Multitasking

Organization

Communication skills

Conflict resolution

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The County of Santa Barbara Public Defender’s Office is seeking a qualified attorney to interview, advise, and represent clients in criminal and civil cases. You will structure investigations, prepare trials, pleadings, and motions, and argue cases before court and jury while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

Ideal candidates will have experience in the legal field, strong Microsoft Office skills, and the ability to manage a heavy caseload.