Description:
Position Overview:This position is located in A Government Entity Attorney's office and is responsible for prosecuting felony offenses in the district court and the youth court. This position also performs other duties as assigned, all under the direction of A Government Entity Attorney.
Essential Duties:
- Prosecutes criminal offenders, reviews investigative reports from law enforcement officers and makes determinations of what charges to file and who to charge or decline the prosecution.
- Prepares for and makes court appearances in non-trial settings such as arraignments, omnibus hearings, change of plea hearings, sentencing hearings, etc. Interviews and prepares witnesses. Prepares court documents. Responds to motions and arguments from the defense.
- Represents the State in court appearance before judges and juries. Prepares witnesses. Prepares jury instructions and exhibits. Examines witnesses. Negotiates plea agreements with defense counsel or defendants unrepresented. Assists law enforcement officers with search warrants and subpoenas. Does legal research and prepares legal briefs, memoranda and other documents.
- Advises city and county agencies and other special districts on legal questions pertaining to their functions. Prepares legal opinions, interprets statutes, codes and ordinances. Prepares resolutions and regulations. Reviews staff reports and assists with complicated communications.
- Prepares legal documents for court. Negotiates with parties to resolve contested issues. Appears in court and handles regular court duties such as preparing witness, investigating evidence and witnesses, and preparing finding of fact, conclusion of law and preparing other arguments either orally or with written briefs.
Other Duties As Assigned
Performs a variety of other duties as assigned by the County Attorney, Special Crimes Chief Deputy Attorney and Chief Criminal Deputy Attorney.
Qualifications:
This work requires knowledge of state and local statutes, rules, regulations and procedures; of county government operations; and legal terminology and documents. The position also requires the ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing; exercise courtesy and tact in receiving the public and in giving and obtaining information; and understand and maintain safeguards for sensitive and confidential information.
Education & Experience:
This position requires a degree from an accredited law school and an active membership in the State Bar of Montana. This position requires 5+ years of relevant legal experience, the ability and skill to be a career prosecutor, and the ability to help train and assist other criminal deputy county attorneys.
Supplemental Information:
Applicants for this position must possess a valid driver's license and be insurable under the County's liability policies.