Conducts legal research, drafts legal documents and interprets laws, rules and regulations. Receives level of oversight, training, and supervision based on experience and expertise in assigned area.
Assistant Public Defender – Attorney IV
Appellate Division
Provide a full range of legal services to indigent defendants in the direct appeal of their criminal cases. Represent clients before the appellate and trial courts. Review and evaluate the trial court record for error, conduct legal research, and prepare and file motions, briefs, petitions for discretionary review, and other legal documents pertaining to the direct appeal. Prepare for and present oral argument to the intermediate court of appeals and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. Assist felony and misdemeanor assistant public defenders in the office with trial support matters, including researching and providing advice and guidance on legal issues.
1. Files appellate briefs on behalf of indigent defendants in direct appeals of trial court judgments and orders.
2. Conducts legal research and writes briefs; appearing and arguing in appellate court as necessary or desirable. Complies with appellate timetables.
3. Advises litigation section on developments in case law, provides to trial attorneys on how to preserve issues for appeal.
4. Responds to judges regarding jury charges and legal questions.
5. Assists felony and misdemeanor public defenders as needed.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.
Education, Experience and Training:
Graduation from an accredited law school with a license to practice law in the State of Texas. Minimum two (2) years and (6) months experience practicing law required. Extensive appellate work on direct appeals is required.
Special Requirements:
None.
Disclaimers: This is an “at will” position with no civil service or other appellate rights. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Physical/Environmental Requirements:
Standard office environment.
Dallas County is the second most populous county in Texas, accountable to two million residents spread over 30 municipalities.
The County is a rich tapestry of individuals of varying ages, backgrounds, nationalities and faiths. One-fourth of our population is foreign-born, contributing to the unique vibrancy that sets our County apart.
We provide essential community programs, including public and mental health services, a court and juvenile justice system, the recording of property and the issuance of licenses for marriage, drivers and vehicle plates. These services are provided to the citizens by more than 6,500 employees working in 100 different departments and elected offices.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional, ready to apply your expertise to the next challenge, or a new member of the workforce researching career options, we invite you to explore our wide range of job opportunities.
