Staff Attorney – Municipal Unit

Under the general supervision and direction of the Chief of our Municipal Unit, represent clients accused of misdemeanor crimes and traffic offenses in the Franklin County Municipal Court. Staff attorneys in the Municipal Unit provide representation to indigent clients at arraignments, pre-trials, motion hearings, trials, sentencing and probation hearings. The attorneys in this unit also provide representation to indigent clients on felony cases that are pending in the Franklin County Municipal Court including initial appearances and preliminary hearings. Provide zealous, client-centered representation.

• Represent clients in Franklin County Municipal Arraignment Court – both in-custody and out-of-custody proceedings on a rotating schedule as well as traffic court
• Handle Duty Assignments in the Municipal Unit on a rotating schedule
• Represent indigent defendants charged with misdemeanor crimes and traffic offenses in pre-trial, motions, trial, sentencing, and probation violation proceedings
• Investigate cases, review discovery, analyze evidence, interview witnesses and develop defense strategies
• Client contact is considered an essential component of our representation. Client interviews – in office or at the jail – are required. Additionally, being present for jail calls and the prompt return of voicemail and emails is also required.
• Advise clients on rights, risks, and options including negotiating plea bargains
• Work with investigators, social workers and law clerks to provide comprehensive representation
• Maintain a high-volume trial-level caseload
• Respond to requests for legal assistance from individuals who contact the Public Defender’s Office
• Participate in community events and meetings related to the work of the Franklin County Public Defender
• Participate in training, offer advice, co-counsel cases and cover cases when needed
• Perform all other duties assigned, delegated or required of the assistant public defenders

Requirements:

• License to practice in Ohio and a desire to work in criminal defense
• A demonstrated capacity to work creatively and collaboratively on legal issues confronting our indigent clients
• Commitment to social justice and defending the rights of indigent individuals charged with or convicted of crimes
• Demonstrated understanding of the issues of race, poverty, mental health, and substance abuse as they relate to the criminal justice system
• Experience working in and with racially and socioeconomically marginalized communities
• Ability to interact and effectively communicate with office personnel, court personnel, prosecutors, law enforcement, probation officers and the public
• Availability for court at all times court is open, and to meet and work outside the normal working hours if necessary

   

A well-qualified candidate will be able to develop and maintain skills in time management and organization as well as work independently and contribute to a team-based environment. Interested candidates should submit cover letter and resume to marice@franklincountyohio.gov.