Closing Date: 22nd April, 2024
Description:
Description of Work:Hourly pay rate will fall within stated range based on experience.
The Assistant Public Defender (APD) is a trial lawyer position that supports the appointed chief public defender, playing a crucial role in countering state prosecutions. The APD practices in various forums, including county, municipal, and township courts, offering quality legal representation to defendants unable to afford legal counsel for criminal or civil violations. Additionally, the APD may be assigned to juvenile delinquency and neglect and abuse (NA) cases, serving as a Guardian ad litem (GAL). The position also provides operational/administrative assistance to the department head for recruiting, training, supervising, and evaluating a large volunteer workforce of qualified student interns. While initially under supervision, the lawyer progressively gains independence with experience. As an APD progresses in the department, in addition to the tasks described above, the APD may be assigned to take on administrative duties, train and/or supervise subordinates, take leadership positions, and take on more difficult and/or higher jeopardy cases.
Required Minimum Entrance Qualifications
- Must possess a Law Degree from an accredited college or university.
- Have a valid Michigan driver's license.
- Must be eligible for Membership in the State Bar Association and be licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan.
- Must be able to secure clearance to enter correctional facilities.
- Must be able to provide personal transportation for job related duties throughout the County if a County-owned vehicle is not available.
Preferred but not required:
- Bilingual in Spanish highly desired.
- Two years of experience in the practice of criminal or family (i.e.: Neglect and Abuse, Juvenile, Probate (Mental Health) law) law is preferred.
- Physical Conditions / Work Location
