Misdemeanor Public Defender

Job Description

The Misdemeanor Public Defender in the Island County Office of Public Defense practices in the District Court of Island County, with little supervision. This position reports directly to the Director of the Office of Public Defense.

Job Duties:

Carries up to a full caseload of misdemeanors.
First or second chairs district court jury trials. Reviews and assists in matters of tactics, trial strategy, legal research, writing and motion practice.
Handles miscellaneous court hearings, including but not limited to, first appearance calendars in all courts, arraignment calendars, non-compliance calendars (probation violations and failures to comply), Drug Court, Mental Health Court and Involuntary Treatment Act hearings.
Handles the on-call phone in a two week rotation.
Works with the court and prosecutors to resolve cases. Appropriately utilizes non-attorney professional services.
Maintains accurate and complete statistical information to be used for future needs and projections.
Represents the Office of Public Defense with various agencies, judges, court commissioners, law enforcement officials, County officials, school officials and bar association. When assigned, serves on specific task groups or committees.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience & Certifications:

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Graduation from an ABA accredited school of law and must be a member of the Washington State Bar Association.
Ability to successfully pass Island County background check.
Valid Washington State driver’s license.

Island County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.