Description
This is a permanent position in the Dutchess County Public Defender's Office. Under the direction and supervision of a Bureau Chief, this is a senior attorney position (available in both criminal court and family court) requiring defense of all clients assigned to them by the Court or their Bureau Chief. Although direction, consultation and advice from the Bureau Chief and other higher-level employees will be available, latitude is given for the exercise of independent judgment with the expectation of full case management through trial. Senior Assistant Public Defenders shall counsel and represent clients at every stage of the proceedings either in Criminal court or Family court and shall use their judgment to initiate such proceedings necessary to protect the rights of the accused, or rights as provided under case law or applicable statutes. Senior Assistant Public Defenders assist the Public Defender in the investigation, preparation, case management and appeal in Criminal or Family court and legal proceedings involving indigent clients. Work is performed in accordance with guidelines provided in the law. Travel during a workday may be required and assignments outside of normal working hours may be given.
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Admission to the New York State Bar and:
EITHER (A) Three (3) years as a practicing attorney involved with caseload
management, courtroom experience and appellate brief writing or trial
experience;
OR (B) Two (2) years of work experience at a Public Defender’s Office involving
caseload management and extensive court appearances with commensurate
litigation or trial experience.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Candidate must possess a valid New York State Driver License at the time of appointment and to maintain position.
SALARY RANGE: $110,330-$121,542
FINGERPRINTING: A fingerprint supported background investigation is required before an appointment is made to some positions. Pursuant to New York State Executive Law, the Division of Criminal Justice Services requires that a fee accompany each such request for a search. It is due once a job offer is made and accepted by the applicant.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:
Eligible for student loan forgiveness
Retirement - New York State Public Employees Retirement System
Vacation - 20 days, after five years increases to 25 days
Holidays - 13 legal holidays
Insurance - health, vision, and dental for individuals and families, with percent contribution
Life Insurance - 3 times pay after established minimum length of employment, until 70 years of age
How to Apply / Contact
Apply online at www.dutchessny.gov/jobs. Recruitment will be posted until the position is filled.
An EEO/AA Employer