In addition to the responsibilities set forth for Public Defender II, this position shall additionally require the following:
Provide advanced legal representation to clients accused of serious criminal offenses, all classifications, including violent crimes, complex drug offenses, white-collar crimes, and other high-stakes felony cases within the Circuit Court, Criminal Division, for individuals charged as adults.
Handle all aspects of the defense process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trial advocacy, and post-conviction matters such as appeals and petitions for relief in matters where he/she was attorney of record at the trial stage.
Develop and implement strategic defense plans, incorporating legal research, client interviews, expert testimony, and case law to build robust defenses.
Represent clients in hearings, trials, and post-conviction proceedings, delivering compelling arguments, examining witnesses, and managing complex evidence.
Guide clients through the legal process, ensuring that they are fully informed about their options and their rights, while advocating for the best possible legal outcomes. Document all plea offers received from the prosecution have been conveyed to the client for consideration.
Conduct case reviews and provide feedback to less experienced attorneys, ensuring that they develop their legal skills and expertise. When possible, appear at trial with less experienced attorneys to provide guidance.
Manage a caseload of complex, high-profile criminal cases, ensuring that each case is handled efficiently, thoroughly, and with attention to detail.
Actively pursue the experience and criteria necessary to be considered for lead or co-counsel in cases where client is charged with Capital Murder.
Develop case strategies tailored to individual circumstances, preparing all necessary legal documentation, including motions, legal briefs, and responses to the prosecution.
Monitor deadlines, manage case schedules, and ensure timely submission of legal filings, motions, and other required documentation to the court.
Conduct direct and cross-examinations of witnesses, present evidence, and deliver persuasive opening and closing statements.
Prepare clients for testimony and court appearances, explaining the process and ensuring they are emotionally and mentally prepared.
Conduct advanced legal research to support case strategies, reviewing statutes, case law, and legal precedents to develop innovative defense strategies.
Collaborate with expert witnesses, investigators, and other specialists to gather evidence and build a comprehensive defense.
Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in area of criminal law with a concentration in defending violent felonies.
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