Assistant Public Defender, Mental Health Division - Misdemeanor

Position Description:

The Harris County Public Defender’s Office (PDO) has an opening for an Assistant Public Defender in the misdemeanor section of the Mental Health Division. The PDO provides holistic, client-centered representation to individuals charged with offenses in Harris County. Attorneys in the misdemeanor section of the Mental Health Division represent clients with a documented history of mental illness or intellectual/developmental disorder, or both, who are charged with offenses in the county criminal courts at law. The ideal candidate will have some personal or professional experience interacting with this population, although it is not required.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides zealous, client-centered representation in the Harris County Criminal Courts at Law while maintaining the highest level of professionalism.

• Conducts legal research, analyzes and interprets legal issues, and drafts motions, memoranda, and other pleadings in assigned cases.

• Collaborates with support staff and investigators to prepare case files, gather evidence, and develop a strong defense.

• Develops a facility with civil and criminal statutes related to mental health and intellectual disability.

• Maintains regular communications with clients, witnesses and opposing counsel, including frequent visits to the jail to ensure clients are informed and supported

• Prepares cases for trial and litigates cases from charge to disposition. Examines witnesses, presents legal arguments and evidence, conducts pre-trial conferences, hearings, and plea negotiations.

• Fosters a respectful, team-oriented environment with clients, colleagues, and court personnel, and supports co-workers as needed.

• Participates in training and professional development opportunities both within and outside the office.

• Performs other duties as assigned to support the mission of the office.
  
  

Education:

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited institution of law

Licensure:

• Current license to practice law in the State of Texas.

• Member of and in good standing with the Texas State Bar.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• The ability to manage a demanding caseload as assigned from the courts.
• The ability to work in a team environment.

• Personal or professional experience working with people who have mental illness or IDD.
  

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

• Regular Full-time

• Monday - Friday | 8:00am - 5:00pm

  • Weekend hours as needed

• Depends on Qualifications
• Based on 26 Pay Periods
  • Plus, benefits