Description

Public Defender, First Assistant Public Defender and Assistant Public Defenders

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The Public Defender, First Assistant and Assistant Public Defenders shall represent, without charge or by the order of the Court, with the consent of the  defendant, each indigent person who is charged with a crime as defined by Section 722(a) of the County Law. The Public Defender(s) shall counsel and represent the defendant at every stage of the proceedings following his arrest and shall initiate such proceedings as are necessary in his judgment, to protect the rights of the accused and may in his discretion prosecute appeals if in his judgment the facts and circumstances warrant such action. In addition, the Public Defender may assign professional, technical and clerical personnel in the investigation, preparation, conduct and appeal in any Court proceeding involving indigent persons. The work is performed under guidelines provided by law. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)

Public Defender or Assistants defend each indigent person who is charged with a crime;
First Assistant Public Defender is responsible for assuming the role of the Public Defender in the his/her absence.
Appoints sub-professional, technical and clerical employees to assist in defending indigents;
Represents and counsels defendants at every stage of the proceedings following an arrest;
Initiates the necessary proceedings to protect the rights of the accused;
Prepares any appeal which is warranted under existing circumstances;
Keeps records on cases and makes reports as necessary;
Under the supervision of the Public Defender, the Assistant Public Defenders help in the daily work as assigned.

FULL PERFORMANCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES & PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of criminal law applicable to state and federal criminal laws; comprehensive knowledge of criminal court procedure and of the rules of evidence; a high degree of skill in the preparation of briefs; skill in presentation of a defense before a jury; special ability to analyze, appraise and apply legal principles, facts and precedents to legal problems; good command of language and public speaking; tact; courtesy; professional and administrative judgment and physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Must be admitted to the bar of the State of New York within four months of appointment.