Public Defender: Relentless Courtroom Advocate

State-of-Minnesot; Bemidji (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Minnesota seeks a motivated attorney to provide legal services to indigent defendants in district court and juveniles in juvenile court. Under general supervision, you will prepare cases, interview clients, conduct legal research, and advocate in court across various proceedings.

Responsibilities include coordinating with prosecutors, social workers, and mental health professionals, and guiding law clerks.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college of law or equivalent.
• Admission to the Minnesota Bar or eligibility under the Supreme Court Student Practice Rule.
• Individuals under the Student Practice Rule must pass the bar on the first attempt.

Responsibilities

• Prepares cases for defense of indigent defendants in district court and juveniles in juvenile court.
• Interviews clients and prospective witnesses; drafts briefs, memoranda, pleadings and other legal papers.
• Conducts or directs legal research; represents clients in arraignments and pre-trial proceedings.
• Advises on bail, release decisions, and mental competency; coordinates with prosecutors and other officials.
• Locates experts when needed and negotiates plea agreements; collaborates with social workers and probation officers.
• Mentors law clerks and performs related duties as required.

Skills

Criminal law

Legal research

Court proceedings

Client interviews

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bar admission Minnesota

Tools

Westlaw

LexisNexis

Job description

The State of Minnesota seeks a motivated attorney to provide legal services to indigent defendants in district court and juveniles in juvenile court. Under general supervision, you will prepare cases, interview clients, conduct legal research, and advocate in court across various proceedings.

Responsibilities include coordinating with prosecutors, social workers, and mental health professionals, and guiding law clerks.