Job Details

Assistant Public Defender I

• $61,163 - $81,964/ Year
• Full Benefits Package

Duties:

• Provides court-appointed indigent defense services within Berrien County Courts.
• Carries a full caseload as determined by the Chief Public Defender.
• Attends legal and community meetings.
• Reviews charging instruments, police reports, and other discovery provided by the prosecution.
• Promptly meets with clients to learn the client’s goals for the representation and any special needs of the client.
• Determines what further fact investigation to undertake and directs that investigation.
• Determines what legal issues need development and researches those issues.
• Negotiates with the prosecution and promptly advises the client of the status of those negotiations.
• Litigates any legal issues that are necessary and appropriate, including bringing cases to trial.
• Conducts any post-trial litigation. Performs duty-attorney functions as assigned.
• This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified. 

Education and Experience:

• Graduation from an accredited law school.
• Must be a member of the Michigan State Bar in good standing.
• At least one year of criminal defense experience or comparable civil legal services is desired.

Special Requirements:

• Must successfully pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have access to a vehicle.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to operate technology and typical office equipment.
• Able to utilize the services of interpreters when necessary.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to relate empathetically to clients with diverse backgrounds and special needs.
• Must exercise common sense and good judgment.
• Able to maintain confidentiality with highly sensitive information.
• Ability to learn quickly, multitask, and function efficiently under stressful and distracting conditions.
• Work independently as well as cooperatively in a legal services team atmosphere.

Note:

• APDs may participate only in Berrien County Public Defender Office assigned legal work for compensation during their employment, with the exception of cases obtained prior to employment with the office.
• Permission of the Chief Public Defender is required to continue representation on prior non-BCPD cases and/or to be involved in active representation on a pro bono basis.