Senior Attorney - 202257 Window Rock, AZ

Office of the Navajo Public Defender
Employment Type: Regular Full-Time
Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sensitive Position: No
Applicants must submit transcripts, degrees, certificates, and/or other required documentation with the employment application to receive full credit. The Navajo Nation provides preference to eligible and qualified applicants in accordance with the Navajo Preference in Employment Act and Veterans Preference.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Attorney represents court-appointed Navajo Nation clients, including adults and juveniles, in criminal and delinquency matters in both in-court and out-of-court proceedings. Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Provide legal representation to Navajo Nation court-appointed clients in criminal and juvenile delinquency proceedings.
• Thoroughly review court filings, discovery materials, and related legal documents.
• Conduct client interviews and provide guidance regarding:
• Potential outcomes and defenses
• Possible consequences and sentencing exposure if convicted
• Deferred prosecution programs, peacemaking options, and potential federal prosecution
• Develop case theories and prepare pre-trial motions, responses, and replies for trial preparation.
• Interview and/or depose witnesses.
• Communicate and coordinate with prosecutors, probation officers, court staff, federal public defenders, service providers, and other relevant parties.
• Assist clients with referrals and appointments for evaluations and related services.
• Provide guidance and assistance to court advocates as needed.
• Prepare, file, and complete appeals and writs to the Navajo Supreme Court when required.
• Travel to district and family courts throughout the Navajo Nation to represent clients.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree; and Four (4) years of professional experience as a state-licensed attorney. Current admission in any state bar, with the intention of seeking and securing admission to the Navajo Nation Bar Association and either the Arizona, New Mexico or Utah State Bar withing one (1) year of date of hire.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS

• Knowledge of federal, state, and tribal laws, court procedures, and Rules of Evidence.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Skill in preparing legal opinions, motions, and appellate documents.
• Proficiency in computer use and basic software applications.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and professional working relationships.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION APPLICANTS SHOULD KNOW

• Must possess a valid state driver’s license.
• Must obtain a Tribal Vehicle Permit as a condition of employment.