Job Opening: First Assistant Defender
Department: Office of the Public Defender
Posting Date: August 3, 2022
Closing Date: open until filled
Shift: Office hours 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, additional hours as necessary
The Delaware County Office of the Public Defender provides legal representation to the individuals facing a loss of freedom in the criminal, delinquency and mental health systems in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The office employs over roughly 70 attorneys and staff to provide zealous advocacy for our clients. The office represents several thousand clients each year in the District Justice Courts, the Court of Common Pleas and the Appellate Courts of Pennsylvania.
Under the general oversight of the Public Defender Director, the First Assistant Defender directs, oversees and participates in the following duties:
Supervise unit chiefs, public defenders, and support staff to provide legal representation, to indigent clients in criminal, delinquency and mental health proceedings
Participate in recruiting, interviewing, hiring and training of all Office of the Public Defender staff
Assist the Director in developing and administering a detailed annual budget
Assist the Director in establishing departmental policies and procedures
Supervise professional, technical, and clerical staff
Maintain cooperative working relationships with all stakeholders
Perform related work as required
Licensed and admitted to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or eligible for reciprocity
At least 7 years criminal law experience and familiarly with the Pennsylvania criminal justice system
Prior experience managing attorneys, social workers, investigators and staff in a legal organization, preferably a public interest law firm
Thorough knowledge of criminal law, court practices, and procedures
Excellent organizational, oral presentation, and communication skills
Demonstrated commitment to public service and capacity for fairness
A strong work ethic, ability to manage a demanding workload, and decision-making skills
Strong communication, leadership and relationship-building skills
Residence Requirement: The County of Delaware has a residency requirement for employees. Anyone applying for this job must reside in Delaware County or be willing to move to the County within six months of starting employment.
To apply, please fill out our online application form.