PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 1ST CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

DESCRIPTION Position: Attorney (Assistant Public Defender) Working Title: PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 1ST CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER - 21010162 Agency: Justice Administrative Commission Agency: Office of the Public Defender, First Circuit Salary: Based Upon Experience (minimum $70,000.00 annually and a generous benefits package) Location: Office of the Public Defender, First Judicial Circuit (Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton Counties). Offices include Fort Walton Beach (Okaloosa County) and Defuniak Springs (Walton County). Position type: Attorney (Assistant Public Defender). We are hiring misdemeanor and felony attorneys in the offices listed above. Responsibilities and duties include: Provide legal counsel as trial counsel when appointed by the Court to those accused of criminal offenses who cannot afford to hire a lawyer. Represent defendants during courtroom proceedings, conduct case law research, and determine trial strategy such as cross-examination procedures, witness selection, jury selection, testimony decisions and openings and closings arguments. Maintain a reasonable caseload while gaining trial experience; operate with professional independence and receive support from office administration and senior attorneys to balance personal and professional life. During training, attorneys belong to the Florida Public Defender Association (FPDA), enjoy paid travel to continuing education seminars hosted by the FPDA, and receive CLE credits. Generous benefits include State retirement system and health/hospitalization, life, and disability insurance coverage. Qualifications and preferences: Candidates sitting for the next Florida Bar exam are welcome and encouraged to apply. Preference given to members in good standing of the Florida Bar. The Public Defender's Office has protected the Constitution and the rights of Florida citizens since the landmark Supreme Court case, Gideon v. Wainwright. Our office provides legal counsel when appointed to those who cannot afford a lawyer, performing as trial counsel by representing defendants during courtroom proceedings, researching case law, communicating with defendants to determine trial strategy (cross-examination procedures, witness selection, jury selection, testimony decisions and opening and closing arguments). Other information: Employer has a "harassment-free" workplace policy requiring honesty, confidentiality and professional conduct. All employees must uphold confidentiality requirements of all host software programs and practice safe workplace procedures, following policies and procedures. For retirees of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), check with FRS regarding how re-employment affects current benefits. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation should notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center in advance to allow sufficient time for accommodation. The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act. Application information: How to Apply: Use People First online system. Attach resume. Additional information: For assistance, call the People First Service Center at (877) 562-7287. Pursuant to Florida Law, the State of Florida is an EEO employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr