Attorney I

Summary

Under general supervision, performs professional work of considerable difficulty in prosecuting or defending civil and/or criminal cases and advising on legal matters; performs related work as assigned.

Essential Job Functions

• Reviews legal cases to determine if sufficient cause exists to prosecute.
• Advises law enforcement officers and witnesses of legal procedures.
• Files complaints on Justice Court misdemeanor cases.
• Prosecutes or defends cases in Justice Courts.
• Confers with clients. Advises clients regarding their legal rights, courses of action and strength of a case.
• Reviews performance and gives instructions and guidance in court procedures, trial techniques and in matters of law.
• Conducts legal research on own behalf and that of other attorneys by computer.
• Obtains and reviews source documents such as police reports, medical records, and transcripts. Locates and interviews witnesses.
• Prepares and files necessary court documents.
• Attends and participates in court appearances and legal proceedings.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of principles and procedures of the Arizona justice system.
• Knowledge of the application of statutes and legal precedents.
• Knowledge of legal and administrative proceedings.
• Knowledge of the preparation of legal defenses and prosecutions.

• Skill in rendering logical, clear and effective arguments.
• Skill in interpreting statutes, case histories and various laws.
• Skill in effectively communicating verbally and in writing.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public.
• Skill at conducting computerized legal research.
• Skill in preparing documents by word processing.

Desirable Qualifications