THE POSITION

The list developed from this recruitment will be used for a limited period to fill open and promotional, regular full-time and/or part-time positions throughout the County, should they occur -- current vacancy in Ukiah. Under close supervision, in a training capacity, the Deputy Public Defender I performs a variety of professional legal work involving the defense preparation of misdemeanor criminal cases as assigned and provides assistance to department staff. Examples of duties include but are not limited to the following:

• Interview clients and other associated parties, such as investigators, police officers, probation officers and other attorneys.
• Review and evaluate assigned cases; determine appropriate strategies to use in each case.
• Represent defendants in court at arraignments, preliminary hearings, pre-trial conferences and/or trials.
• Research, formulate, draft and file motions, briefs and/or other legal documents.
• Write, file and argue motions in court.
• Prepare cases for presentation at jury trials; coordinate with appropriate relevant parties
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Minimum Education and Experience Requirements: Current membership with the State Bar of California. Completion of a law clerk program, preferably in a Public Defender's office, is highly desirable; or any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Licenses and Certifications: Licensed to practice law in the State of California, Valid Drivers License.

Knowledge of:
• Principles, procedures and practices regarding the practice of law in the State of California.
• Applicable state, federal and local ordinances, laws, rules and regulations.
• Record keeping, report preparation, filing methods and records management techniques.
• Methods and techniques of research, statistical analysis and report presentation.
• Ethical and professional standards of conduct.
• Computer applications and hardware related to performance of the essential functions of the job.

Skills and Abilities:
• Analyze situations effectively, interpret and apply laws and regulations and recommend effective courses of action.
• Read, analyze and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures and government regulations.
• Write reports, motions, briefs and/or other legal documents.
• Speak effectively before groups and respond to questions.
• Argue clearly, logically and persuasively in written and oral form.
• Maintain confidentiality and objectivity.
• Understand and accept differences in human behavior, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

SELECTION PROCESS

All complete applications will be reviewed with those judged most qualified progressing further in the selection process. Based on the number of qualified candidates, an oral examination (weight 100) or an unassembled exam, consisting of an evaluation of education and experience as stated on the application form, will be administered. The oral examination will test the knowledge and abilities described above. A minimum score of 70 must be attained for placement on the employment list. Special Testing: If you require special testing arrangements to accommodate a disability or religious conviction you must contact Human Resources at 707.234.6600 prior to the test date to make your requirements known. You must provide enough advance notice to allow Human Resources to properly review and evaluate your request. Special Requirements: Employment with the County may require the successful completion of a pre-employment background and/or medical examination and may include drug screening.

APPLICATION PROCESS

This announcement is a synopsis of duties and requirements of this job; to review the complete classification specification and benefits please see the HR website. Applications must be submitted to the Human Resources Department by the final filing date. To obtain requisite application contact: Human Resources, 501 Low Gap Road, Room 1326, Ukiah, CA 95482; 707.234.6600; FAX 707.468.3407; TDD 800.735.2929; website: www.co.mendocino.ca.us/hr

Original posting may be found here:  sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/lgl/3061058244.html