Jurisdiction: Cortland County

Jurisdictional Class: Exempt

Adopted: 10/20/05

Amended: 1/4/12

PUBLIC DEFENDER

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The work involves responsibility for directing the investigation, preparation and counsel of defendants at every stage of the proceedings following arrest including all proceedings necessary to protect the rights of the accused. The Public Defender represents without charge or by order of the Court with the consent of the defendant, each indigent who is charged with a crime as defined by Section 722(a) of the County Law. In addition, the incumbent may assign professional, technical, and clerical personnel in the investigation, preparation, conduct, and appeal in any court proceedings involving indigent defendants. The work is performed under the administrative direction of the County Administrator, the general direction of the County Legislature, and guidelines provided by law. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only)

Oversees all activities in the Office of the Public Defender;

Assigns counsel or attorneys for each indigent who is charged with a crime;

Appoints paraprofessionals, technical and clerical employees to assist in

defending indigents;

Represents and counsels defendants at every stage of the proceedings following

arrests;

Initiates such proceedings which are necessary to protect the rights of the accused;

Prepares any appeal that is warranted under existing circumstances;

Keeps records and makes reports.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices of criminal law and court proceedings;

Comprehensive knowledge of judicial procedures and rules of evidence;

Ability to interpret and work with New York State and Federal criminal codes;

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing;

Ability to reason quickly and logically in stressful situations;

Ability to analyze and interpret laws and legal documents in order to render an accurate legal opinion;

Ability to analyze and organize facts effectively;

Ability to prepare for and present cases in court;

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others;

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

SUGGESTED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Possession of a license to practice law in the State of New York and five (5) years of experience as a practicing attorney in the field of criminal law and/or family court proceedings.