Assistant Public Defender I - III

Berks County, PA • Reading, PA

355d

About The Position

Public Defenders provide legal representation for indigent persons at Summary Hearings, Preliminary Hearings, Mental Health Hearings, State Parole Violation Hearings, Appeals, and Juvenile Court. Representation includes meeting clients, evaluating case and evidence, providing advice to client, negotiation with police and District Attorney's Office as well as conducting hearings.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

• Basic working knowledge of Pennsylvania Criminal Law.
• Ability to use Windows based computer programs.
• Good problem solving and organization abilities.
• Good oratory and decision-making skills.
• Good interpersonal and diplomacy skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to work with stress.

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, including travel to prisons and meeting with in-custody clients.

Benefits

• Physical presence in the office is required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree