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PUBLIC DEFENDERS OFFICE, 12TH CIRCUIT - ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21009110
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State Of Florida
Bradenton, FL (In Person)
Full-Time
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Job Description
Requisition No:
875320Agency:
Justice Administrative Commission Working Title:
PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 12TH CIRCUIT
- ASSISTANT
PUBLIC DEFENDER
- #
Pay Plan:
Pub.DefndrsJAC Position Number:
#Salary:
$70, #Posting Closing Date:
08/04/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool Attorney•Misdemeanor Classification:
5901 Exempt Reports to: Division ChiefJOB DESCRIPTION
Summary/Objective The Misdemeanor Attorney provides high-quality, client-centered legal representation to indigent individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses. This role requires strong advocacy skills, a commitment to social justice, and the ability to manage a high-volume caseload while ensuring every client receives zealous representation. Essential Functions Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.- Representing clients charged with misdemeanor offenses at all stages of the criminal process, including arraignments, plea negotiations, motions, hearings, trials, and sentencing.
- Communicating with clients in and out of custody about legal needs and providing them with advice on their legal options in a consistent and timely manner.
- Conducting client interviews, explaining legal rights and options, and maintaining ongoing communication to build trust and ensure informed decision-making.
- Investigating cases thoroughly, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with investigators, social workers, and support staff.
- Researching and drafting legal motions, briefs, and memoranda.
- Preparing and filing all legal documents in a timely manner.
- Appearing in court regularly for arraignments (when necessary), case management/pre-trial conferences, docket sounding, and other hearings.
- Attending first appearances when assigned and accurately annotating the docket.
- Advocating for alternatives to incarceration and connecting clients with community-based resources when appropriate.
- Collaborating with colleagues in a team-based environment committed to client-centered representation and systemic reform.
- Documenting all contacts (with client, family, experts, etc.) and other important case-related information within the client database system STAC.
- Answering calls when in the office, if not available returning calls within 72 hours.
- Communicating with other attorneys on companion cases.
- Getting prior approval for all due process expenses from supervisor.
- Reading, reviewing, and staying current on new case law and legislation.
- Completing case closing forms timely and accurately.
- Running STAC reports at least quarterly to ensure case open/close status is up-to-date and accurate.
- Manage a high-volume caseload. Qualifications
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
- Admission to practice law in the state of Florida.
- Strong commitment to public defense, social justice, and protecting constitutional rights.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
- Ability to handle a large caseload.
- Trial experience (jury or bench) preferred, but not required.
- Cultural humility and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations. Compensation & Benefits
- Salary commensurate with experience, in accordance with the office's pay scale.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid leave.
- Professional development and training opportunities.