Assistant Public Defender

Assistant Public Defender

Chautauqua County Office of the Public Defender
Location: Mayville, NY
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Schedule: 35 Hours Per Week | Monday–Friday
Openings: Five (5) Positions
Salary: Commensurate with Experience

Position Overview

The Chautauqua County Office of the Public Defender is seeking qualified attorneys to fill multiple full-time Assistant Public Defender positions in our Mayville, New York office.

This is an excellent opportunity for attorneys interested in meaningful courtroom experience, criminal defense, and a career in public service.

Under the general direction of the Public Defender or a higher-ranking Assistant Public Defender, the Assistant Public Defender provides legal representation to individuals who are unable to afford private counsel and who are entitled to representation pursuant to New York State law.

Assistant Public Defenders counsel and represent clients throughout the criminal justice process, advocate for their constitutional and legal rights, and initiate appropriate proceedings when necessary to protect those rights. The position may also involve handling appeals when warranted.

Typical Responsibilities

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Represents eligible clients charged with criminal offenses in accordance with New York State law.
• Counsels and represents clients at all stages of criminal proceedings following arrest.
• Appears in court on behalf of clients and advocates for their legal and constitutional rights.
• Reviews charges, evidence, discovery materials, police reports, and other case-related documentation.
• Conducts legal research and prepares appropriate motions, pleadings, and other court documents.
• Meets with and advises clients regarding charges, potential consequences, available defenses, and legal options.
• Investigates and develops cases in preparation for hearings, negotiations, and trial.
• Participates in pre-trial proceedings, hearings, plea negotiations, and trials.
• Initiates proceedings determined to be necessary to protect the rights of the accused.
• Interviews and prepares witnesses as appropriate.
• Works collaboratively with investigators, attorneys, court personnel, and other professionals involved in assigned cases.
• Maintains accurate and timely case files and legal documentation.
• May prepare and prosecute appeals when warranted.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Successful candidates must have:

• Eligibility for admission to practice as an attorney and counselor at law before the courts of the State of New York at the time of application for appointment; and
• Admission to the Bar of the State of New York at the time of appointment.

Employment Status

These positions are being filled on a permanent basis from candidates who submit an approved application.