Job Description

Posting number: 2024-0008

Department: District Attorney (DA)

Job classification: DDA/DPD/CS Attorney III

Posting type: Open

Categories: Administration, Corrections, Court Administration, Legal, Public Safety, Law Enforcement, Investigative, Professional, Attorney, Probation, Criminology, Database Administration

Summary

FOR FIRST CONSIDERATION, APPLY BY NOVEMBER 24th

FIRST ROUND INTERVIEWS FOR SELECTED CANDIDATES WILL BE HELD THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 30, 2026

• * * UP TO $5,000 HIRING BONUS * * *

The Nevada County District Attorney’s Office is seeking a dedicated, ethical, and community-minded attorney to join our team in Nevada City, California. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for attorneys who are passionate about public service, courtroom advocacy, and making a significant impact in the community through criminal prosecution.

A Deputy District Attorney III manages felony criminal cases from filing through resolution while collaborating with experienced prosecutors, investigators, victim advocates, and law enforcement partners. The role provides valuable courtroom experience and professional development in a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Conduct legal research and analyze evidence
• Review reports, digital evidence, recordings, and witness statements
• Evaluate cases and determine appropriate charging decisions
• Negotiate plea deals and litigation
• Prepare and conduct jury trials and evidentiary hearings on a weekly basis
• Daily court appearances as well as community outreach and public speaking
• Collaborate with law enforcement agencies and victim advocates
• Develop case strategies and manage caseloads independently
• Develop and deliver internal and external training materials
• Prosecute criminal matters in accordance with California law and ethical standards

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate is adaptable, collaborative, and committed to public service. Successful applicants will demonstrate:

• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Good judgment and strategic problem-solving abilities
• Ability to multi-task and often navigate several complex issues at once
• Professionalism and integrity in fast-paced situations
• The capacity to develop cooperative working connections
• Excellent listening and negotiation skills
• Strong organizational and technological skills
• A dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth
• The ability to approach sensitive cases with empathy, discretion, and integrity

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school
• Active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California
• Equivalent to 36 months of experience practicing criminal law

Salary & Benefits

Attorney III Salary: $147,368.00 - $179,899.20 annually (DOE/DOQ)

Nevada County offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement benefits; paid holidays and generous leave programs; tuition reimbursement; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

We also prioritize work-life balance, employee wellness, and professional development. We offer the opportunity to live and work in a vibrant mountain community with rivers, trails, and outdoor recreation.

Why Nevada County?

Nevada County is committed to encouraging a workplace culture built on collaboration, integrity, innovation, and service. County leadership values employee engagement, supports professional growth, and promotes open communication and continuous improvement. Here, your work matters. Your ideas matter. Your contribution directly impacts the safety and well-being of our community every day.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

For a complete review of the job specification, click here.