PUBLIC DEFENDER'S OFFICE, 12TH CIRCUIT- ASSISTANT PUBLIC DEFENDER

The Misdemeanor Attorney provides high-quality, client-centered legal representation to indigent individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses. This role requires strong advocacy skills, a commitment to social justice, and the ability to manage a high-volume caseload while ensuring every client receives zealous representation.

Essential Functions:

• Representing clients charged with misdemeanor offenses at all stages of the criminal process, including arraignments, plea negotiations, motions, hearings, trials, and sentencing.
• Communicating with clients in and out of custody about legal needs and providing them with advice on their legal options in a consistent and timely manner.
• Conducting client interviews, explaining legal rights and options, and maintaining ongoing communication to build trust and ensure informed decision-making.
• Investigating cases thoroughly, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with investigators, social workers, and support staff.
• Researching and drafting legal motions, briefs, and memoranda.
• Preparing and filing all legal documents in a timely manner.
• Appearing in court regularly for arraignments (when necessary), case management/pre-trial conferences, docket sounding, and other hearings.
• Attending first appearances when assigned and accurately annotating the docket.
• Advocating for alternatives to incarceration and connecting clients with community-based resources when appropriate.
• Collaborating with colleagues in a team-based environment committed to client-centered representation and systemic reform.
• Documenting all contacts (with client, family, experts, etc.) and other important case-related information within the client database system STAC.
• Answering calls when in the office, if not available returning calls within 72 hours.
• Communicating with other attorneys on companion cases.
• Getting prior approval for all due process expenses from supervisor.
• Reading, reviewing, and staying current on new case law and legislation.
• Completing case closing forms timely and accurately.
• Running STAC reports at least quarterly to ensure case open/close status is up-to-date and accurate.
• Manage a high-volume caseload.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice law in the state of Florida.
• Strong commitment to public defense, social justice, and protecting constitutional rights.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment.
• Ability to handle a large caseload.
• Trial experience (jury or bench) preferred, but not required.
• Cultural humility and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary commensurate with experience, in accordance with the office's pay scale. Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid leave. Professional development and training opportunities.

Location: Sarasota, FL, US, 34237