Advocate Attorney

Description:

Position Summary:
Under general supervision, provides quality legal representation of tribal or non-tribal members in complex civil and/or criminal matters in accordance with tribal, state, county, federal or other applicable laws.
The work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards; major work tasks are covered by instructions or procedures and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Evaluates applications; counsels current and prospective clients on legal matters.
• Interviews clients, gathers evidence, and analyzes pertinent information in civil, criminal, and other cases to formulate defense and prepare for legal action.
• Conducts research, interviews clients, and witnesses and handles other details in preparation for trial.
• Prepares legal briefs, develops strategy, arguments and testimony in preparation for presentation of case.
• Handles specific cases assigned by supervising attorney.
• Presents cases in tribal courts and courts of other jurisdictions.
• Interprets laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals.
• Confers with colleagues to establish and verify basis for legal proceedings.
• Maintains all appropriate documentation as required.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by conducting research; reviewing case histories and rulings; attending workshops, conferences and seminars; establishing networks; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws and codes, modern tribal court practices, judicial procedure, and rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of applicable criminal, civil and traffic laws, statutes and ordinances and other applicable regulatory laws.
• Knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of modern court practices and administration with emphasis on court development and systems.
• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham Nation's government operations and functions.
• Skill in operating various word-processing, spreadsheets, and database software programs.
• Skill in gathering, analyzing, and organizing information.
• Skill in preparing, reviewing, analyzing and interpreting complex legal documents and publications.
• Skill in working effectively under pressure.
• Skill in presenting complex information.
• Skill in providing superior customer service to external and internal customers.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
• Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
• Ability to travel long distances throughout the Tohono O'odham Nation.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and negotiate legal actions.
• Ability to interpret and apply applicable federal, state, county and local laws, regulations, and requirements to complex criminal and civil cases.

Minimum Qualifications:
Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school, and five years' work experience in the legal field.
Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

• Must possess an Arizona State Bar Association License.
• Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
• May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
• If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
• Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.

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