Deputy Public Defender

Closing Date: 3rd May, 2024

Description:

Summary:
Under the direction of the Public Defender, the Deputy Public Defender is responsible for directing the operations of the Public Defender's Office in the absence of the Public Defender. In addition to that administrative role, the Deputy Public Defender would handle major criminal cases, and assist the Chief Public Defender in advising and training attorneys in the office, and coordinate case management to meet the constitutional and statutory obligations of Lenawee County with regard to indigent defendants.
Supervision Received: Work is performed under the general supervision of the Department Head or designee.
Supervision Exercised: Supervise the Public Defender's office under the direction of the Public Defender.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: An employee in this class may be called upon to do any or all of the following: (These examples do not include all of the tasks which an employee may be expected to perform)

• Prepare state grant and quarterly grant reports
• Monitor and supervise employees in the Public Defender's Office
• Handle felony case load
• Coordinate with Public Defender employees regarding administrative duties.
• Perform related duties as assigned

• An undergraduate degree and a Juris Doctor degree with a certificate of admission to the State Bar of Michigan and authority to practice law through the state.
• Be in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan
• Have a minimum of five (5) years of experience in the practice of criminal law
• Have at least three (3) years of progressively more responsible experience in the administration of legal services
• Admittance to practice in federal courts as desirable
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and objectives of criminal law

• Work is primarily indoors and requires sitting for extended periods
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 pounds
• Must be able to hear and speak over the phone and in one-on-one communication needs
• Must be able to see and notice the needs of clients
• Must be able to go to and from the Lenawee County jail to talk with clients

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