Public Defense Attorney, Montesano

Public Defense Attorney

The attorney filling this position will act as court-appointed counsel representing indigent people in the courts of Grays Harbor County. The attorney will represent clients in all phases of criminal proceeding, including first appearance, arraignment, pretrial hearings, trial preparation and investigation, plea negotiations, trial and sentencing. The attorney may also represent clients on probation violations, post-sentencing violations, Defense Counsel represents people charged with criminal law violations in District Court initially and may progress to Superior Court once qualified pursuant to the Washington State Indigent Defense Standards.Essential duties include: Interview accused as assigned to determine the facts of the case. Review police reports and other materials to evaluate each case against the state of the law to determine its relative strengths and weaknesses, engage in plea negotiations, development of case strategy and trial preparation.Meet with clients to review evidence, evaluate options and strategies. Keep clients informed of the status of their case and promptly respond to reasonable requests for information. Explain to clients all matters necessary for them to make informed decisions about their cases. Personally investigate cases and/or obtain and direct investigators in the investigation of cases, engage in pre-trial negotiations, prepare and argue pre-trial motions as needed, conduct bench and jury trials and any necessary hearings subsequent thereto.Coordinate and arrange for tests of physical evidence and the use of expert witnesses. Conduct all trial actions including selection of jury in criminal matters outside of juvenile court, cross and direct examination of witnesses, introduction of evidence and exhibits and make arguments on the law and interpretation of the evidence.Represent accused in all legal proceedings including, but not limited to arraignments, pre-trial motions, trials, guilty pleas and post-trial matters, including but not limited to post-trial motions, sentencing hearings, restitution hearings, sentence reviews and the filing of appeals. Prioritize and plan cases and work activities while using resources efficiently.Act on a rotating basis to provide 24-hour access to counsel to individuals requesting an attorney because they are under arrest and or investigation. Cooperate with the courts in its electronic records project, which includes electronic receipt of hearing and trial notices, discovery, and other documents and information, and electronic filing of motions and other documents.Perform a variety of legal office work, prepares appropriate legal pleadings, and conducts necessary research. Maintain accurate and complete statistical information to be used for future needs and projections. Provide limited back-up defense coverage for District, and Juvenile Courts and is knowledgeable of District Court rules and procedures.Perform other duties as assigned by the Defense Director. Maintain appropriate level of confidentiality on all matters. Perform other duties or projects as assigned, including attending conferences/meetings on behalf of the Public Defender Department. Complete seven hours of continuing legal education within each calendar year in courses related to their public defense practice.Qualifications include compliance with the current WSBA Indigent Defense Standards. The position is entry level requiring minimal experience and provides opportunities for trial training. The overall benefit of in-house counsel is the individual is on location when needed, training is specific to GHC courts and cross training is available for back-up.The attorney shall develop relationships with staff, other departments and individuals outside county government that encourage participation, teamwork, effective relationships, and use of resources. The attorney as an agent of the Grays Harbor County Department of Public Defense is required to maintain a professional approach and demeanor in all activities.Special requirements include: Required to successfully complete all continuing legal education requirements as mandated by the Washington State Bar Association, which includes 2 hours of ethics credits per year throughout employment. Must have a driving record that meets County standards and possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and throughout employment.Background check must meet County criteria. Grays Harbor County offers the following benefits: MEDICAL DENTAL LIFE VISION DEPENDENT COVERAGE - Medical, dental and vision EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT DEFERRED COMPENSATION - includes employer match up to $50 per monthDRS RETIREMENT VACATION - 8 hours to 24 hours monthly depending on longevity SICK LEAVE - 8 hours per month for full time employees BEREAVEMENT LEAVE 2 FLOATING HOLIDAYS 12 PAID HOLIDAYS LONGEVITY PAY Grays Harbor County pays entire medical, dental and vision for full time employees and provides up to $800 monthly towards dependent coverage for Courthouse Contract employees and $950 per month for Public Works Contract employees. Benefits are pro-rated for part-time employees.