Assistant Public Defender FT

Description of Work

The Assistant Public Defender (APD) is a trial lawyer position that supports the appointed chief public defender, playing a crucial role in countering state prosecutions. The APD practices in various forums, including county, municipal, and township courts, offering quality legal representation to defendants unable to afford legal counsel for criminal or civil violations. Additionally, the APD may be assigned to juvenile delinquency and neglect and abuse (NA) cases, serving as a Guardian ad litem (GAL). The position also provides operational/administrative assistance to the department head for recruiting, training, supervising, and evaluating a large volunteer workforce of qualified student interns. As an APD progresses in the department, in addition to the tasks described above, the APD may take on administrative duties, train and/or supervise subordinates, take leadership positions, and take on more difficult and/or higher jeopardy cases.

Required Minimum Entrance Qualifications

• Must possess a Law Degree from an accredited college or university.
• Must have a valid Michigan driver's license.
• Must be eligible for Membership in the State Bar Association and be licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan.
• Must be able to secure clearance to enter correctional facilities.
• Must be able to provide personal transportation for job-related duties throughout the County if a County-owned vehicle is not available.

Preferred but not Required:

• Bilingual in Spanish is highly desired.
• Two years of experience in the practice of criminal or family (i.e., Neglect and Abuse, Juvenile, Probate (Mental Health)) law is preferred.

Physical Conditions / Work Location

Physical Activities

An Assistant Public Defender performs generally sedentary work activities, requiring the occasional lifting of objects weighing thirty-five (35) pounds or less.

Environmental Conditions

An Assistant Public Defender works in various locations (e.g., County Courthouse, Jail, Public Defender's Office) and additional travel may be required.

Additional Information

Evaluation Content

The selected candidate must take a post-offer medical examination (including back screen and complete physical) and drug screening test given by a County-appointed physician before the first day of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the medical examination and drug screening test. Applicants for County employment may be subject to a post-offer criminal background check, depending on the nature and assignment of the position. An offer of employment is contingent upon the results of this background check. Appointees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period before their appointment is considered permanent.

Applicant Review Procedure

Any applicant is entitled to a review of any determination or action taken regarding their employment application. Inquiries should be directed to the County Human Resources Department.

Purpose

The purpose of this recruitment is to establish an eligible list from which to fill present and future vacancies in this classification within the County system. The Department Head selects candidates who meet the required minimum qualifications for each opening. This list remains valid for three months unless exhausted or extended.

Place of work