Description:

*Current vacancy is located in the Tom Green County (San Angelo) office.*

The Concho Valley Public Defender Office (CVPDO) Felony Public Defender is located at the office in Tom Green County (San Angelo) or Taylor County (Abilene). The CVPDO represents persons who are not financially able to hire legal counsel across a twelve-county service area covered by two offices: one in San Angelo (Coke, Concho, Irion, Runnels, Schleicher, Sterling, Tom Green), the other in Abilene (Callahan, Coleman, Jones, Shackelford, Taylor). The Felony Public Defender must be willing to live or relocate to reside within the region.

Provides a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the assigned felony, juvenile, and misdemeanor courts. Assists in the daily operation of the Public Defender Office. Primary responsibility is handle the felony caseloads. Additional responsibilities will include assisting in juvenile cases, mental health dockets, misdemeanor cases, trials preparation and trials, and appeals as directed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Reviews new cases assigned to the CVPDO.
Prepares cases for representation in court.
Meets with defendants regarding legal issues.
Routinely make jail visits for defendants incarcerated.
Negotiates plea arrangements with counsel for the state.
Prepares files and represents clients in pretrial motions and hearings.
Consults with clients regarding legal process and preparation for trial when necessary.
Prepares cases and witnesses for trial.
Represents the client in bench and jury trials.
Prepares and files appellate briefs and appears in appellate courts when necessary.
Performs all other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Skill and ability to manage a demanding and diverse caseload assigned from the Chief Public Defender, oral and written communication, exercise sound legal analysis and judgement.

Physical Requirements and Work Setting:
Works in a well-lighted, air-conditioned environment; prolonged periods of sitting and periodic walking, standing, bending, and reaching; occasional lifting up to 15 lbs; visual acuity, hearing ability, and manual dexterity required.

Education and/or Experience Required:
Juris Doctor degree from an ABA school of law and a demonstrated track record of resolving felony cases.

Certificates and Licenses: