Public Defender

position number:  this is a part-time position
county: crawford
posting end date: [[postingenddate]]
anticipated starting salary: $35,514

the arkansas public defender commission is seeking an experienced attorney to fill a half-time public defender position in the 21st judicial district, based in van buren, ar.

position highlights:

• the half-time (part-time) position allows the successful applicant to maintain a private law practice.
• positions are eligible for state of arkansas benefits, including health insurance and retirement

*** all applicants must be able to pass a pre-employment background check**

job series: public defenders

class code: lpd
03p

pay grade: spc
03

salary range: $71,027 - $105,120

the public defender i is responsible for providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring that all clients receive fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The ideal candidate must possess a valid law license in arkansas and be prepared to represent clients in criminal defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, and post-conviction matters.

meet or exceed the requirements for position of public defender ire present indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law.develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, prior to or upon conclusion of probationary period of nine (9) months.provide legal advice and counsel to clients regarding their rights, case developments, and available options.develop

case strategies, including preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence to ensure the best possible defense for clients.handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases, with a focus on both adult and juvenile defendants as required.maintain constant communication with clients to keep them informed of case status and legal options, providing clear explanations in an understandable manner.prepare

annual reports and other documentation for the board’s review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives.conduct thorough investigations into all aspects of each case, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts.review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess the strength of the case and identify defense strategies.prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents to support clients’ defense.perform

legal research to stay up-to-date with criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies to ensure effective defense in court.work closely with other attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff within the public defender's office to provide the best possible defense for clients.represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials.negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel, ensuring clients' best interests are considered in the negotiation process.report

case dispositions on or before the last day of every month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the commission obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law.

in-depth understanding of arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as federal criminal law as applicable.strong legal research skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies.ability to quickly assess case details,…