Come join a brand-new office in District 7 as an Assistant Public Defender and experience all that the inner coastland has to offer. For those who desire a playground for water activities like kayaking and fishing, you will appreciate proximity to the Chowan, Roanoke, Middle and Cashie Rivers. The Albemarle Sound is also nearby and home to a challenging and attractive Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course. Drive to the Outer Banks, for a fun and scenic day trip. Virginia Beach is only a 2-hour drive, or you may drive less than about 5 hours to experience all that Washington, D.C. has to offer! In District 7, you can enjoy the peace and charm of living in a community—where “city life” and a faster pace is accessible with only a short commute.
This position will be responsible for representing indigent persons charged with criminal offenses in District and Superior Court. District 7 includes Bertie, Halifax, Hertford and Northampton Counties and offers several valuable benefits: State Health Plan and Full State Employee Benefits Package, Retirement Plans, CLE opportunities and free trainings, Annual Public Defender Conference, Public Service Loan Forgiveness based on federal eligibility requirements, expert forensic resources…and more.
Responsibilities include:
- Advocating for client’s rights and interests prior to and during court proceedings, hearings, and trials. This includes conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, developing defense strategies, assisting in investigating cases and gathering evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting evidence in court.
- Staying informed about relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents.
- Collaborating with other legal professionals, including colleagues within the public defender’s office, investigators, and support staff.
- Handling administrative tasks related to caseload management, document preparation, and other responsibilities within the public defender’s office.
- Maintaining open and effective communication with clients to keep them informed about their cases, explain legal options, and address their concerns. Also, maintaining communication to better understand your client’s unique situation and build a strong defense on your client’s behalf.
- Adhering to ethical standards and legal responsibilities in the practice of law. The District 7 Public Defender Office strives to create a diverse staff with expertise and interest in serving our indigent clients who come to us with diverse needs, backgrounds, ethnicities, and disabilities.
Applications must be submitted via the online portal for consideration. Deadline to apply is 8/1/2024 at 5:00pm EDT.