Deputy Public Defender

Duchesne County is looking to hire a Deputy Public Defender for a permanent county position.

POSITION PROFILE

Under the overall direction, supervision, and request of the Duchesne County Director of Public Defense, administer and fulfill the County's statutory obligations to provide legal representation to all eligible indigent individuals pursuant to the Indigent Defense Act, Title 78B Chapter 22, as amended.

GOALS

To provide representation to indigent individuals who qualify for appointed representation pursuant to UCA Title 78B Chapter 22 and UCA 78A Chapter 6 Part 3 in any and all courts in and for Duchesne County.

As a rural public defender for Duchesne County, Utah, you will be responsible for providing legal representation to individuals who cannot afford to hire their own attorney in criminal cases. This may include representing clients in court, negotiating plea deals, conducting legal research, preparing and filing legal documents, and providing legal advice to clients.

You will be under the direct supervision of the Director of Duchesne County Public Defender's office. You will work closely with clients, judges, prosecutors, and other legal professionals to ensure that the rights of your clients are protected and that they receive fair and just treatment in the criminal justice system. You may also work on a variety of cases, including misdemeanors, felonies, juvenile cases, and appeals.

Additionally, as a rural public defender, you may be responsible for traveling to different courts and detention facilities in Utah to meet with clients and represent them in court. You may also have the opportunity to work on community outreach and education programs to help inform the public about their legal rights and resources available to them.

Overall, this role requires a strong commitment to advocating for justice and providing effective legal representation to individuals needing assistance. A passion for criminal justice reform and a dedication to serving underprivileged communities are also important qualities for this position.

Qualifications:

1. Must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
2. Must be licensed to practice law in Utah or registered to take the upcoming bar exam.
3. Prior experience working in criminal defense or related legal field is preferred.
4. Strong communication and advocacy skills.
5. Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple cases simultaneously.
6. Knowledge of criminal law, courtroom procedures, and legal research.
7. Understanding of ethical responsibilities and obligations as a defense attorney.
8. Willingness to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
9. Commitment to upholding the rights of clients and providing quality legal representation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Graduation from an ABA-accredited law school with a Juris Doctorate Degree or its equivalent;
• Admission to the Utah State Bar, eligible for reciprocity or registered for the upcoming bar exam. Must be a member in good standing in all states where licensed.

Duchesne County in Utah offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors and residents to enjoy. Some popular options include fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, off-roading, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, river rafting, golfing, and swimming.

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