Description:
The Concho Valley Public Defender Office (CVPDO) Senior Investigator 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 Misdemeanor 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 misdemeanor courts. Assists in the daily operation of the Public Defender Office. Primary responsibility is to handle the misdemeanor caseload. Additional responsibilities will include assisting in juvenile cases, mental health dockets, and assisting felony attorneys in felony trial preparation, trials and consulting with clients and witnesses, 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.
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 at least one year of experience involving criminal representation in state courts, or having worked in a criminal defense clinic
Certificates and Licenses:
- License to practice law in the State of Texas
- Valid Texas driver license and reliable motor vehicle.
Additional Requirements:
The Misdemeanor Public Defender must be willing to live or relocate to reside within the region.
