Assistant Public Defender II

Job TitleAssistant Public Defender IIPay Rate Min to Mid Range$93,228.00 - $116,538.00Time TypeFull timeSummaryUnder general direction of the Chief Public Defender, is responsible for preparing and trying criminal cases; supervises support staff; conducts legal research; negotiates plea bargain agreements; represents indigent defendants in criminal cases; and performs related duties as required.Duties and Responsibilities:Manages an active caseload of new cases and represents the defendant verbally and through written correspondenceProvides procedural advice to the client on the merits of their case, potential defense, immigration consequences and options for resolutionConducts evidentiary hearings as required to supplement or create records for appellate court reviewAttends all court hearings, file appropriate motions, advocate for your client before the court and in trial settingsProvides resource and research assistance to other staff attorney's on complex issuesMaintains client relationships through continued visits, phone and written correspondence and responds to questions and concerns from clients, family and friendsMaintains awareness of new court decisions, new laws, and revised rules and regulations through conferences, workshops and relevant periodicalsAnswers questions and assists the legal community regarding legal and procedural issuesPerforms related duties as requiredMinimum Qualifications:Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Doctorate of Jurisprudence and four (4) years' experience in prosecution or criminal lawMust be licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and maintain good standing with State Bar of TexasConsiderable knowledge of criminal procedure and defense; good knowledge of legal research and writing skills including familiarity with computer-based legal research; good knowledge of investigatory methodsSkill in organization and presentation of facts and supporting logic; skill in communicating effectively with hostile, abusive or irrational individuals; skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writingAbility to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, County employees, outside organizations, service providers and the public; ability to prioritize, plan and organize work to meet numerous and amended deadlines for motions, extensions, show cause and evidentiary hearings and other court requirements; ability to operate personal computer and basic office equipmentMust have valid driver's license, motor vehicle liability insurance and personal injury insuranceMust secure and maintain a favorable background investigationMust clear a pre-employment physicalMay be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweekWorking Environment and Physical Demands:Constantly working in indoor conditionsTravel required to various hospitals to visit clients, including court hearings held at the San Antonio State Hospital and other locations outside the Bexar County CourthouseOccasionally moves items weighing up to 15 poundsOccasionally moves about the officeFrequently communicates with others; must be able to exchange accurate informationConstantly operates a computer and other office productivity machineryPositions self to perform essential functionsMust be able to remain in a stationary positionWorking With Bexar CountyBexar County offers employees a competitive salary, retirement, and benefits. Many employee benefits are available to an employee's spouse/plus one qualifying adult and dependent child(ren). Employee benefits are strategically designed to support an employee and family, work/life balance.Employee Benefits | Bexar County, TX - Official WebsiteBexar County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to Workplace Diversity.We are committed to providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.