Attorney II - Office of Public Defenders

Summary This is professional position providing legal services for the County. This position will be independently responsible for the defense of juvenile and/or adult defendants through all phases of representation from the inception of the case through disposition and appeals. Duties will include, but are not limited to, pre-trial investigations, research, client interviews, trial preparation work, document preparation, filing of pre-trial and post-trial motions, trying of cases before Magisterial District Judges, Judges of the Court of Common Pleas, Juvenile Masters, and appeal.

Essential Duties: Essential job duties for this position include the following items. Other duties must be performed as assigned or required.

- Have a general understanding of the Crimes Code, Vehicle Code, PA Rules of Evidence, PA Rules of Criminal Procedure;

- Ability to identify legal issues and prepare written briefs in support of the issues;

- Ability to relate to indigent clients;

- Ability to represent indigent defendants at the Magisterial and trial levels including preliminary hearings, probation and parole hearings, pre-trial hearings, bail, trial and post-trial proceedings;

- Ability to represent juveniles in all phases of the juvenile system including detention and adjudication proceedings;

- Ability to meet with clients whether out on bail or in the Lehigh County Jail;

- Follow policy set forth by unit supervisor;

- Able to represent indigent persons in more serious felony cases, including some homicide cases.

Supervisory Responsibilities: The Position has supervisory responsibility for approximately 0 direct reports.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, the individual in this position must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skills and ability required.

- Must be an active member of the PA Bar and in good standing;

- Must have a valid driver's license and vehicle;

- Must be able to pass Child Clearance;

- Must be able to work independently;

Education/Experience:

- Doctoral degree (Ph. D.) or equivalent; or more than 10 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Language Skills:

- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.