Description

This important professional legal work involves responsibility for representing indigent Family Court Clients as assigned by the Public Defender.  Work involves representation of the clients through every stage of proceedings.  In addition to actual representation, employees in this class assist the Public Defender in investigation, preparation, conduct and appeal in various court and legal proceedings involving indigent clients.  Work is performed in accordance with guidelines provided in law.  

The following is indicative of the level and types of activities performed by incumbents in this title.  It is not meant to be all inclusive and does not preclude a supervisor from assigning activities not listed which could reasonably be expected to be performed by an employee in this title.

1.      Represents and counsels clients at every stage of proceedings following initiation of proceedings;

2.      Initiates such proceedings as are necessary to protect the rights of the client;

3.      Assists the Public Defender in the preparation of various court proceedings;

4.      Confers with opposing counsel, experts, county social service workers concerning individual cases;

5.      Investigates defendant’s financial status;

6.      Prepares pleadings, appeals, and correspondence related to court cases.

Requirements

Knowledge of the principals and practices of family law to effectively defend clients; Knowledge of court procedures and the rules of evidence to protect the rights of the client; Skill in the preparation of briefs and in the presentation of a case before a court; ability to analyze, appraise and apply legal principles, facts and precedent to legal problems; Personal characteristics necessary to perform the duties of the position; Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.