Under direction, performs the most demanding and complex legal work requiring an advanced degree of knowledge of the law and litigation expertise, including supervising daily operations of attorneys and staff of major units; handling the most complex and sensitive criminal litigation cases requiring a high level of discretion and independence; 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 Public Defender series. Incumbents possess significant expertise in criminal law, criminal procedure, and trial advocacy; are responsible for independently managing the most complex and sensitive criminal cases and/or providing supervisory leadership within the department. Performance of duties require exceptional discretion, sound judgment, and a high degree of independence and initiative.
Positions must meet specific criteria for allocation to this classification. The positions are not multi-allocated, as with other levels in the series. Assignment to this level is at the discretion of the Public Defender. The Deputy Public Defender V manages a demanding caseload with a strong emphasis on courtroom litigation and is distinguished from the Deputy Public Defender IV by a combination of supervision and/or extensive litigation and trial work in complex and specialized areas of law, consistently handling the most difficult and serious case assignments within the department, requiring significant experience and advanced legal skills.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Handles the most complex and high-profile criminal cases involving life sentences, special circumstances, the death penalty, unique and complex scientific evidence, and cases with high public visibility or concern, including homicides, sexual assaults, violent offenses, and gang-related crimes; performs extensive criminal litigation and demonstrates a high level of discretion and independence.
Manages 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, examination of witnesses, courtroom arguments, directing investigations, interviewing and hiring experts and coordinating staff in the defense of such cases, and post-trial motions.
Conducts advanced legal research, analyzes and interprets new and existing laws and ordinances, court decisions, pending legislation, and other legal authorities; assists in drafting legal challenges and proposed legislation.
Oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of specialized projects and the defense of capital cases while mentoring attorneys and support staff through discussions on legal principles, strategic litigation planning, and procedural practices.
Evaluates complex criminal cases to determine the appropriateness of legal strategies; advises and or participates in the interviewing of clients and witnesses and the collection of evidence; assesses defenses and offers sound legal guidance to clients.
Prepares and reviews motions, briefs, memoranda, opinions, and criminal pleadings.
Engages in negotiations and collaborative discussions with prosecutors, probation officers, case managers, and judicial officials regarding plea agreements, charge modifications, and other legal matters.
May assist in the development of departmental policies and implement approved policies within the unit.
May supervise attorneys, paralegals, and law clerks; assigns and monitors case assignments to provides high quality client representation, ensures effective resource allocation, and adherence to legal standards; evaluates staff performance.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Active Membership in the California State Bar.
Experience: Eight years (8) years as a practicing criminal law attorney in California to include at least four (4) years as a Deputy Public Defender IV in San Joaquin County with focus on extensive trial litigation of serious and violent criminal cases, including homicides and sexual offenses, with demonstrated expertise in handling complex and difficult cases requiring a highly advanced degree of knowledge of the law and legal processes.
KNOWLEDGE
Advanced principles of criminal, constitutional, and civil law and their application in complex and high profile cases; trial and hearing procedures, including jury selection, examination and cross-examination of witnesses, and legal argument; rules of evidence and standards of proof; legal research methods and resources; state and local laws, ordinances, and regulations; court procedures and practices; procedural rules governing criminal litigation; law enforcement operations and investigative procedures; ethical responsibilities of public defense attorneys; and supervisory principles.
ABILITY
Independently handle the most complex and demanding criminal cases, including violent offenses with potential life sentences, special circumstances, and death penalty cases; 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 staff engaged in the defense of criminal cases; manage high-volume caseloads efficiently while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail; communicate with clients and develop and maintain positive attorney-client relationships; work collaboratively with other agencies, community organizations, and other stakeholders; communicate and cooperate with fellow staff members, agency representatives, judicial officers and the general public; exercise independent judgment, discretion and initiative.
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; frequent exposure to intense emotions; Special Requirements –some assignments may require working weekends, nights, and/or 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.
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