Assistant Public Defender

The Assistant Public Defender for Preliminary Hearings is an attorney position. The person must be an attorney licensed in Pennsylvania and be familiar with Pennsylvania criminal law and procedures. Located in south-central Pennsylvania, York County Government offers many exciting and challenging opportunities to learn and grow in a career while making a difference in the lives of York County residents. Each County department meets a unique need in the community and provides an opportunity for both professional growth and personal satisfaction. York County offers a competitive wage and benefit package.The person must be able to represent indigent clients in preliminary hearings and summary trials at 19 MDJs throughout York County. Ideally, the person who fills this position has at least 2 years experience in handling criminal cases. This is deemed important because the attorney will need to have independent judgment on whether to reach a resolution/agreement or to have a hearing, and to be able to competently handle such hearings for all levels of criminal offenses.ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must have a law degree and be licensed to practice law in PA and be in good standing Must be familiar with criminal law and procedures, as well as the Rules of Evidence, the Sentencing Guidelines, and other statutes relevant to representation of defendants in criminal and indirect criminal contempt cases. Must be able to represent indigent clients in preliminary hearings and summary trials and be able to exercise independent judgement on whether to reach a resolution or hold a hearing. Must be able to conduct preliminary hearings competently, with an eye towards establishing a record for a Habeas or impeachment at future hearings on the case. Must be able to travel to 19 MDJ offices throughout the county to handle preliminary hearings Must comply with annual CLE requirements If you have any questions, please contact the county's Department of Human Resources at ychr@yorkcountypa.gov.