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PUBLIC DEFENDER III
The Public Defender Attorney III is responsible for interviewing, hiring, assigning work, reviewing complicated legal documents, providing guidance and assistance, and evaluating the performance of incumbents. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.
Class Code:
G012N
Job Grade:
GS13
Special Job Requirements:
None
Typical Functions:
Supervises small to medium professional and administrative support staff by interviewing, hiring, assigning work, viewing complicated legal documents, providing guidance and assistance, and evaluating performance of incumbents. Researches previous cases, decisions, state statutes, case law, and federal legislation relating to current cases, to prepare for litigation or settlement, and reviews and analyzes agency reports/records related to cases. Assists staff public defenders in obtaining expert witnesses and other resources from the Public Defender Commission, as needed. Advises personnel on legal problems and renders legal opinions pertaining to agency programs and responsibilities. Advises Public Defender Commission and Legislature of needed legislation. Appears with the Executive Director at the Legislature, as needed, to both support the budget and speak for and against substantive legislation. Prepares and presents public defender budget to County Quorum Court. Consults with County Judge and quorum court members regarding county personnel issues and budget issues. Consults with circuit court judges and district court judges on public defender fees, user fees, and scheduling of public defender cases. Attends and participates in meetings, conferences, and seminars to obtain continuing legal education credits and to stay abreast of changing legislation and trends which might impact agency programs. Performs related responsibilities as required or assigned.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills:
Knowledge of criminal law. Knowledge of state and federal laws, regulations, and precedents. Knowledge of legal research and writing techniques. Ability to plan, organize, and direct work of others. Ability to problem solve in personnel situations. Ability to research, analyze, interpret, and apply legislation and case related information. Ability to conduct conflict’s litigation. Ability to prepare, present, and review oral and written informational reports. Ability to prepare, present, and justify budgetary needs.
Minimum Qualifications:
The formal education equivalent of a Juris Doctor degree and at least seven years practicing law in the defense of criminal cases and trial work; plus two years of experience in a leadership or supervisory position. Licensed to practice law by the State of Arkansas. Be Y certified or attain Y qualifications within one year of employment. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Required Certificates:
None
Exempt:
E
