Assistant Public Defender, Mental Health Division

Position Description

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Represents clients of the Public Defender in court who are identified as mentally ill or as intellectually disabled.

• Makes contact with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement as required, including regular trips to jails and prisons.

• Gathers evidence and discovery. Supervises social workers, investigators, and other staff.

• Assists in seeking services and assistance for clients.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx

If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or emailADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements

Education:

• A Juris Doctorate degree and a current license to practice law with the State Bar of Texas are required.

Licensure:

• A valid driver's license is required. (Must obtain a Texas driver's license before date of hire).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Good written and oral communication skills required.

Effective organizational and time management skills required to successfully execute job duties.

Must possess the skill to manage a demanding caseload of mentally ill and/intellectually disabled criminal defendants using interviews and evidence-based practices.

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation butONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume"will not be accepted for qualifications.

Preferences

• Three (3) years plus experience as a criminal defense attorney is preferred; including having been approved to take appointments in the Harris County Criminal Courts.

• Experience working with mentally ill or intellectually disabled persons preferred.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred.

General Information

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

• Regular Full-time

• Monday - Friday

• Evenings, Weekends, and Holidays as needed

• Hours will be discussed during departmental interview

Salary:

• Depends on Qualifications

• Based on 26 Pay Periods

• Plus, benefits

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.