ATTORNEY

The purpose of this position is to investigate and prosecute or defend misdemeanor criminal cases in an assigned legal office or County department.

• Conducts initial case evaluations as assigned, reviews case file and analyzes the facts and evidence of the case; assesses defendants’ eligibility and needs; reviews criminal histories; determines appropriateness of diversion, dismissal, or charges; reviews accuracy of jurisdiction, venue, and scope of arrest powers; ensures sufficient probable cause; prepares or reviews charges and discovery; and prepares for arraignment.
• Investigates, analyzes, and prepares assigned cases for hearings and trials; interviews complainants, law enforcement officers, and defendants; requests and inspects records and evidence; makes investigative requests and follows up on leads; obtains and reviews scientific results and analysis; identifies and interviews witnesses; verifies alibis; observes crime scenes; subpoenas witnesses and prepares them for trial; prepares clients for trial; determines need for, procures, and interviews expert witnesses;
  
  assesses need for psychological/psychiatric evaluation; anticipates legal issues; prepares graphics and exhibits; assists in the development of case strategies; and presents cases to superiors.
• Represents assigned clients, including the County, at arraignments, preliminary and pre-trial hearings and conferences, probation and sentencing, post-adjudication/post-conviction hearings, alternative and diversion programs, specialty courts, or any related courtroom proceedings; prepares and argues motions and evidence; negotiates and presents plea resolutions; negotiates at all stages on behalf of the client; advises clients regarding the acceptance or rejection of plea offers; and assists with jury selection, opening and closing statements, evidence presentation, witness questioning, and bond/sentencing recommendations as assigned.
• Communicates with and serves as a liaison to County staff, clients, victims, families, witnesses, and community partners; develops attorney-client relationship; provides information and updates regarding case status; makes appropriate referrals; requests victim advocates and assists them as needed; and explains and advises regarding the investigative and judicial process.
• Conducts research and documentation for assigned cases; research relevant case law; interprets case law in relation to the facts of the case; researches the terms, procedures, or science used in other fields; prepares briefs and motions and responses to same; writes case summaries; drafts complaints, accusations, indictments, jury charges, and supporting documents; and makes trial notes.
• Manages assigned caseload; attends scheduled court appearances; creates new case files; inputs and records case-related data and notes into computer system; logs case activities; closes files; receives and reviews calendars; and coordinates with court administration, clients, witnesses, experts, and others.
• Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge in appropriate legal fields; attends conferences, seminars, meetings, and training events relevant to area of assignment; keeps abreast of legal changes; and participates in professional organizations.
• Coordinates with community partners and the public to support and promote criminal justice efforts and crime prevention initiatives; educates and informs the community about the criminal justice system; and conducts and attends meetings with schools, government organizations, healthcare providers, interest groups, or other community partners.
• Processes a variety of documentation associated with department/division operations, within designated time frames, and per established procedures; receives and reviews various documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards, or retains as appropriate; prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, and other documentation; compiles data for further processing or for use in preparation of department reports; and maintains computerized and/or hardcopy records.
• Operates a personal computer to enter, retrieve, review, or modify data, utilizing word…