Overview

Position Title:Public Defense Attorney I

Company:City Of Benton Wa

Location:Kennewick, WA

Job Description:

Performs a variety of complex and technical senior level clerical and office tasks, requiring comprehensive knowledge of departmental and/or County-wide functions and procedures to perform work and to provide detailed, technical servicing to the public.  Incumbents may lead lower graded employees or volunteer staff members.

Responsibilities:

  • eview and evaluate new criminal cases as assigned.  This includes reviewing police reports and other reports to evaluate case strengths, weaknesses, and legality.
  • Meet with and/or interview defendants to determine facts of the case and to advise defendants on risks or benefits associated with available courses of action in defending cases.
  •  Keep clients reasonably informed of the status of their case and promptly respond to requests for information.
  •  Explain essential concepts, facts, and legal issues to clients to such a degree as to allow them to make informed decisions about their cases.
  • Represent assigned clients at all stages of criminal proceedings including, but not limited to, arraignments, pre-trial motions, post-trial matters, restitution hearings, sentence reviews, and furlough requests.
  • Prepare, draft, and argue appropriate motions necessary to the defending of assigned criminal cases.
  • Investigate assigned cases as necessary, enlisting the assistance of investigators and/or experts if necessary.
  • Manage the plea bargaining process to the best benefit of clients.
  • Provide representation at sentencing proceedings, post-trial motions, and revocation proceedings as needed.

Responsibilities:

  • This position requires a current Washington State Bar membership in good standings.
  • Candidates who are sitting for the next Bar Examination (and have the necessary skills, experience and aptitude) may be considered for an offer contingent upon bar passage.
  • Position also requires a valid Washington State driver’s license and passage of Benton County background investigation.
  • Notary Public helpful.