Under direction, performs the most demanding and complex professional specialized legal work, including supervising daily operations of attorneys and staff of major units; handling the most complex litigations, and managing cases in both criminal or civil matters; and performs related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is the highest non-management level in the Deputy District Attorney classification series. Incumbents in this classification are recognized as experts in their fields and are responsible for overseeing the most complex legal assignments and legal matters and/or providing supervisory leadership within the department. Performance of the work requires the use of considerable independence, initiative, and discretion within established guidelines.
Positions must meet specific criteria for allocation to this classification and are not multi-allocated with other levels in the series. Assignment to this level is discretionary and subject to recommendation by the District Attorney. Deputy District Attorney V is distinguished from the Deputy District Attorney IV by a combination of supervision and/or extensive litigation, and heavy trial work in specialized areas of law, requiring significant experience and advanced legal skills within the District Attorney’s Office.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Serves as lead attorney of high-profile criminal cases, including homicides, sexual assaults, cold cases, major fraud, drug offenses, and gang-related crimes, managing a demanding caseload with a strong emphasis on courtroom litigation.
Develops legal strategies and manages all phases of criminal litigation, including pretrial motions, witness preparation, jury selection, courtroom arguments, and post-trial motions.
Conducts advanced legal research, analyzes and interprets existing laws and ordinances, court decisions, pending legislation, and other legal authorities; assists in drafting legislation for special County and State projects.
Provides leadership in the design, coordination, and evaluation of specialized legal initiatives and high-stakes litigation, including capital cases; mentors attorneys and legal staff by offering guidance on complex legal concepts, strategic litigation planning, and procedural practices to enhance professional development and case outcomes.
Evaluates complex criminal and civil matters to determine the appropriateness of filing charges; authorizes or declines the issuance of formal complaints based on legal sufficiency; provides legal guidance to law enforcement on evidentiary standards and investigative issues prior to charging decisions; interviews complainants and witnesses to assess case viability and offers legal guidance on the preparation and legal sufficiency of search and arrest warrants.
Prepares and reviews briefs, memoranda, opinions, and civil and criminal pleadings.
Engages in collaborative discussions with defense counsel, probation officers, judicial personnel, and law enforcement representatives to negotiate plea agreements, consider charge modifications, and review evidentiary matters; facilitates effective communication among parties to ensure fair and efficient administration of legal proceedings.
Advises the general public, State and local departments, and law enforcement officers on civil and criminal issues and proceedings; advises and directs law enforcement agencies on questions of law in criminal investigation matters.
Assists in the development of departmental policies and implements approved policies within the unit.
Assists law enforcement agencies by responding to and conducting initial investigations as requested.
May supervise attorneys within specialized units, such as homicide, sexual assault, cold cases, major fraud, and drug offenses; assigns and monitors cases to ensure effective resource allocation, adherence to legal standards, and evaluates staff performance.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Active Membership in the California State Bar.
Experience: Eight years as a practicing criminal law attorney in California to include at least four years as a Deputy District Attorney IV in San Joaquin County with substantial expertise in handling high-profile, complex cases and extensive trial litigation experience.
KNOWLEDGE
Advanced principles of criminal and civil law, including their application in specialized areas of prosecution. Complex trial litigation techniques such as jury selection, direct and cross-examination, and persuasive legal argumentation. Applicable state and local laws, ordinances, case law, and regulatory frameworks. Legal research methodologies and procedural rules governing criminal and/or civil litigation. Law enforcement protocols, investigative methods, and evidentiary standards for complex and high-profile prosecutions. Supervisory practices and principles relevant to legal team management.
ABILITY
Independently handle the most complex and demanding legal cases, including high-profile criminal or civil matters; conduct thorough legal research and draft well-reasoned legal documents, motions, and opinions; present compelling legal arguments in court, demonstrating advanced trial advocacy skills; analyze intricate legal issues, identify potential challenges, and develop effective case strategies; supervise and coordinate the work of a staff engaged in the defense of criminal and/or civil cases; manage high-volume caseloads efficiently while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail; work collaboratively with law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and other stakeholders; communicate and cooperate with fellow staff members, agency representatives, judicial officers and the general public; and exercise independent judgment, discretion and initiative, especially in the charging and plea bargaining of criminal violations aid in the application of limited law enforcement resources and in the decision to seek capital punishment.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Mobility - Frequent operation of computers; repetitive motion; sitting for extended periods; walking; occasional driving may be required; Lifting - frequently 5 pounds or less; occasionally 5 to 30 pounds; Vision - constant good overall vision and reading/close-up work; frequent color perception and use of eye/hand coordination; occasional use of depth perception and peripheral vision; Dexterity - normal dexterity with frequent writing and repetitive motions; Hearing/Talking - frequent hearing and talking on the telephone and in person; Emotional/Psychological -frequent decision making, concentration and public contact; occasional exposure to grief; Special Requirements-some assignments may require working weekends, nights, and/or occasional overtime.
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Notify Me when a Job Opens for the above position(s)