This position will be filled as a mixed AU/CLU position initially, but will transition to a full-time CLU position, depending on the CLU caseload.
A Deputy State Appellate Public Defender in the CLU works collaboratively with lead counsel, a fact investigator, a mitigation specialist, and an administrative assistant, to zealously represent indigent capital clients throughout post-conviction proceedings in the district court, and on appeal, through the reinvestigation and reimagination of both the merits and penalty phases of the case. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Developing and maintaining healthy client relationships of mutual trust and respect;
Working with integrity and professionalism to zealously represent each client while maintaining confidentiality and client loyalty;
Treating judges, court staff, opposing counsel, witnesses, and all other case participants professionally;
Collaborating with other team members to identify and vet experts, identify lay witnesses, and conduct merits phase and mitigation investigations;
Assisting lead counsel in making informed and thoughtful strategic decisions, and filling the lead counsel role in lead counsel’s absence;
Working collaboratively with other team members and experts to develop a cohesive post-conviction strategy;
Collaborating with other team members to identify and brief post-conviction and appellate issues;
Assisting with pleading and motion practice in district court post-conviction proceedings, including filing an initial petition for post-conviction relief, any necessary amendments, and discovery requests;
Assisting with, and conducting depositions of, trial counsel, experts, and other relevant witnesses;
Assisting with preparation for, and presentation of evidence at, evidentiary hearings in district court post-conviction proceedings;
Maintaining respectful and trusting relationships with all team members; and
Remaining loyal to former clients by facilitating the work of successor counsel.
A Deputy State Appellate Public Defender in the AU represents indigent clients on appeal in Idaho’s appellate courts in non-death penalty cases. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Communicating effectively with, and competently advising, clients whose cases are pending on appeal;
Carefully reviewing trial court records and fully evaluating potential issues for appeal;
Conducting thorough legal research;
Drafting clear, concise appellate motions and briefs; and
Delivering persuasive oral arguments before the Idaho Court of Appeals and the Idaho Supreme Court.