Attorney I, Public Defender

Summary: This is professional position providing legal services for the County. This position will be independently responsible for the defense of juvenile and/or adult defendants through all phases of representation from the inception of the case through disposition and appeals. Duties will include, but are not limited to, pre-trial investigations, research, client interviews, trial preparation work, document preparation, filing of pre-trial and post-trial motions, trying of cases before Magisterial District Judges, Judges of the Court of Common Pleas, Juvenile Masters, and appeal.

Essential Duties: Essential job duties for this position include the following items. Other duties must be performed as assigned or required.

• Have a general understanding of the Crimes Code, Vehicle Code, PA Rules of Evidence, PA Rules of Criminal Procedure;
• Ability to identify legal issues and prepare written briefs in support of the issues;
• Ability to relate to indigent clients;
• Attend and represent indigent defendants at the Magisterial and trial levels including preliminary hearings, probation and parole hearings, pre-trial hearings, bail, trial and post-trial proceedings;
• Attend and represent juveniles in all phases of the juvenile system including detention and adjudication proceedings;
• Meet with clients whether out on bail or in the Lehigh County Jail;

Supervisory Responsibilities: The Attorney I Position has supervisory responsibility for 0 direct reports.

Qualifications: Must be an active member of the PA Bar and in good standing;

• Must have a valid driver's license and vehicle;
• Must be able to pass Child Clearance;
• Must be able to work independently;

Education/Experience:

• Doctoral degree (Ph. D.) or equivalent; or more than 10 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Member of the PA Bar