Defense Counsel

Closing Date: 27th May, 2024

Description:

The Oklahoma Indigent Defense System (OIDS) is the statewide public defender agency which provides legal representation to indigent clients throughout the State of Oklahoma, with the exception of Oklahoma and Tulsa counties.
OIDS is currently seeking a full-time Defense Counsel in our Non-Capital Trial Division, Okmulgee office.
Basic Purpose
Defense Counsel represent indigent individuals in state court at the trial level in felony, misdemeanor, juvenile delinquency, traffic and wildlife cases; Counsel is also responsible for providing clients with competent legal advice and zealous advocacy at every phase of the criminal trial process.
Typical Functions:

• Performs case management activities at all phases of the direct appeal in the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. This includes maintaining complete and accurate files of all pleadings and orders
• Communicates with client on all aspects of the case, including plea negotiations and post-judgement proceedings, according to agency policy and standards to ensure client can make informed decisions regarding legal representation
• Communicates with client's friends and family to obtain pertinent information without disclosing privileged communication or confidential information
• Conducts independent and expeditious investigations relating to the client's guilt or innocence and potential sentences
• Collects and maintains evidence acquired through the investigation per established standards and laws
• Prepares for trial by filing pretrial motions; develop plea negotiation strategy based on jurisdictional practices and policies and with client's input; securing assistance from experts; and formulating a defense theory based on information produced through the investigation
• Conducts ongoing legal research to identify new issues and prepare for briefing of argument on motions
• Prepares for jury selection by considering legal challenges to selection procedure and developing questions and challenges to determine if the potential juror is suitable
• Preserves legal error for appellate review on all applicable grounds
• Serves as Co-Counsel as assigned
• Provides consultation, advice, assistance, and support to other attorneys and staff
• Performs administrative duties when asked

Level Descriptor

• Positions may be filled at Levels I - VI, depending on candidate experience.
• Salary commensurate with qualifications and agency salary schedule.

Education and Experience:
Applicants should possess a Juris Doctorate degree, active membership and good standing with the State Bar of Oklahoma, or eligibility for admission. Or applicants should be scheduled to take the Oklahoma Bar Exam.

• Level I: < 3 years of relevant criminal litigation experience.
• Level II: 3+ years of relevant criminal litigation experience with 1+ years criminal trial experience.
• Level III: 3+ years of relevant criminal litigation experience with 2+ years criminal trial experience.
• Level IV: 3+ years of relevant criminal litigation experience with 3+ years criminal trial experience.
• Level V: 3+ years of relevant criminal litigation experience with 4+ years criminal trial experience.
• Level VI: 3+ years of relevant criminal litigation experience with 5+ years criminal trial experience.

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