Public Defender

Position Summary This is a professional attorney position responsible for the defense of indigent clients in misdemeanor and felony cases, petitions filed before the mental health board, paternity and child support matters, juveniles and juveniles' parents in matters before the juvenile court. This position also serves as the department head for the Public Defender's Office and shall be responsible for the administrative duties thereof, including but not limited to budget preparation, inventory reporting, and personnel decisions. The Public Defender reviews law enforcement reports, evidence lists, defendant's criminal history, forensics reports, witness/victim statements, or any other documents that might be presented at trial, conducts legal research of federal laws, state statutes and some city ordinances, interviews police officers, defendants, victims, witnesses and other interested or affected parties, develops trial strategy, appears at continued court proceedings, analyzes the probable outcomes of cases using knowledge of legal precedents, interpreting laws, rulings and regulations and negotiating settlements. The Public Defender has considerable latitude in the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. The principal duties are performed in a general office and courtroom environment. Job Responsibilities Represent indigent clients in misdemeanor and felony cases, misdemeanor and felony cases, petitions filed before the mental health board, paternity and child support matters, juveniles and juveniles' parents in matters before the juvenile court including, but not limited to, attending court hearings, attending court proceedings including but not limited to evidentiary hearings, appeals, jury trials, court trials and sentencing hearings. Conduct research. Interview witnesses and victims. Prepare required legal and court documents. Prepare and argue briefs. Negotiate case settlements with the State and other attorneys. Conduct research of legal precedents and applicable laws and statutes. Represent the client's interest in court. Interact, mediate, and negotiate with opposing counsel, judges, office staff, other agencies, and law enforcement offices. Prepare for and conduct jury trials, court trials, pre-trial conferences, probation violations, various motions, and objections to restitution. Consult clients to explain legal issues, investigate the case and provide legal options. Attend assigned specialty courts. Protect client's rights and interests. Prepare briefs, writs, subpoenas, appeals, and other legal documents in preparation for court hearings. Prepare memoranda and legal opinions on a variety of issues as needed. Perform time management and scheduling functions, meet deadlines, and set project priorities. Oversee the work of assigned staff regarding work on assigned cases. Respond to Commissioners', County employees', and clients' questions and comments in a courteous and timely manner. Communicate and coordinate regularly with appropriate co-workers to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations and activities. Maintain strict confidentiality in all cases. Interact with County employees, clients, and the general public effectively and professionally. Perform all work duties and activities in accordance with County policies, procedures, and safety practices. Represent clients in alternative courts. Job Qualifications Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctorate Degree. Licensed to practice law in the State of Nebraska. Engaging in the practice of law for a minimum of two years. An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the position may be considered. Must be legally able to perform work in the United States . #ZelleG???????