Assistant Public Defender

Agency Indigent Defense Services Division PUBLIC DEFENDER 7 DISTRICT Job Classification Title Assistant Public Defender (NS) Position Number 65038426 Grade 30013288 About Us DO YOUR CAREER JUSTICE! Each and every day, North Carolina's courts help provide safety for our communities, prosperity for our economy, and protection for the rights, liberties, and freedoms that sit at the foundation of our state and federal constitutions. Consider an exciting and rewarding career with us and join the more than 7,000 elected officials and employees who make up our workforce and help us ensure that justice is administrated without favor, denial, or delay. Description of Work SALARY RANGE: $60,000.00 - $85,000.00 Seeking NC licensed attorneys, or persons who are awaiting licensure/bar results, to commence immediately upon licensure. Come join a brand-new office in District 7 as an Assistant Public Defender and experience all that the inner coastland has to offer. For the young attorney looking for an opportunity to be in the courtroom, developing their trial skills while collaborating with community stakeholders to reduce recidivism, District 7 is the place for you. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, you will appreciate proximity to the Chowan, Roanoke, Middle and Cashie Rivers where you can spend the day kayaking and fishing. The Albemarle Sound is also nearby and home to a challenging and attractive Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course. Drive to the Outer Banks, for a fun and scenic day trip. Virginia Beach is only a 2-hour drive, or you may drive less than about 5 hours to experience all that Washington, D.C. has to offer! In District 7, you can enjoy the peace and charm of living in a community—where “city life” and a faster pace is accessible with only a short commute. Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences This   position   will   be   responsible   for   representing   indigent   persons   charged   with   misdemeanor   and felony   offenses in   H alifax   County. District 7 includes Bertie, Halifax, Hertford and Northampton Counties and offers several valuable benefits: State Health Plan and Full State Employee Benefits Package, Retirement Plans, CLE opportunities and free trainings,   Annual   Public   Defender   Conference,   Public   Service   Loan   Forgiveness   based   on   federal eligibility requirements, expert forensic resources…and more. Responsibilities include: Advocate   for   client’s   rights   and   interests   prior   to   and   during   court   proceedings, hearings, and trials. This includes conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, developing defense strategies, assisting in investigating cases and gathering evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting evidence in court. Stay informed about relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents. Collaborate with other legal professionals, including colleagues within the public defender's office, investigators, and support staff. Handle administrative tasks related to caseload management, document preparation, and other responsibilities within the public defender's office. Maintain open and effective communication with clients to keep them informed about their cases, explain legal options, and address their concerns. Also, maintain communication to better understand your client’s unique situation and build a strong defense on your client’s behalf. Adhere to ethical standards and legal responsibilities in the practice of law. The   District   7   Public   Defender   Office   strives   to   create   a   diverse   staff   with   expertise   and   interest   in serving our indigent clients who come to us with diverse needs, backgrounds, ethnicities, and   disabilities. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of:   Federal, State, common and constitutional law; judicial procedures and rules of evidence; case, statutory, regulatory, and common law; NC General Statutes to defend criminal cases; judicial and quasi-judicial procedures; and legal research methods. Skills in:   Ability to analyze   facts, identify legal issues, and develop strong case   strategies; Strong oral communication skills to present arguments persuasively and engage with judges and juries; The   ability   to   think   critically   and   make   quick,   effective   decisions   during   trial   proceedings;   Creative problem-solving skills to address unexpected challenges during a trial; Strong writing skills to prepare persuasive motions, briefs, and legal documents; Interpersonal Skills; Organization and Time Management Skills; Tech nology Proficiency Skills. Ability to:   analyze facts, laws, rules, regulations, interpretations, and related written documents and apply applicable law to those facts; plan, develop and execute an effective litigation strategy to achieve desired results; prepare, organize and conduct witness examinations; deliver opening statements, closing arguments, and evidentiary objections; communicate in a clear and concise   manner. Supplemental and Contact Information: INSTRUCTIONS: Applicants must complete an on-line application by clicking the above APPLY link. Mailed or faxed applications will  not  be accepted. Before applying, please read the  Online Employment Application Guide  for instructions on creating your profile and applying for specific postings. It is important your application includes all of your relevant education and work experience and that you answer all questions associated with the application to receive proper credit. Résumés are not accepted in lieu of fully completed applications. *NOTE*  Many job postings require certain documents be attached to an application. Verify your application is complete and uploaded documents are attached to your application  before  submitting it. Applications may not be altered after they have been submitted. All NC Judicial Branch agencies are Equal Opportunity Employ