Deputy Public Defender

Position Open until Filled.

Scotts Bluff County Public Defender’s Office is accepting applications for Deputy Public Defender. Our Public Defenders Office in Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska is a dynamic and high-paced environment. From January 1, 2024, to July 31, 2024, we successfully handled 264 Felony cases and 160 Misdemeanor cases, showcasing our commitment to providing top-notch legal defense. Currently, we have a team of four skilled attorneys, and we are looking to add another outstanding member to our team. This position offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a long-term and fulfilling legal career, as well as for individuals looking to gain significant trial experience early in their legal profession.

The three neighboring communities of Scottsbluff, Gering, and Terrytown, situated along the picturesque North Platte River, offer a combined population of approximately 25,000, with the county population totaling around 36,000. Beyond our legal responsibilities, this area provides a vibrant mix of history and outdoor activities. From the stunning Wildcat Hills State Park just 15 minutes south of Gering to the beautiful Lake Minatare approximately 15 minutes north of Scottsbluff, there are ample opportunities to unwind and enjoy nature. Additionally, we are conveniently situated within driving distance of Cheyenne, Wyoming; Rapid City, South Dakota; and the captivating Front Range of Colorado, including Fort Collins, Loveland, and Denver. Join us in this thriving community and be part of a team dedicated to serving the legal needs of the area.

Requirements: Graduation from accredited law school and admission to the Nebraska State Bar Association. Excellent benefit package available, this position qualifies for Veterans’ Preference. Scotts Bluff County EOE/AAP.

To apply submit Scotts Bluff County application, cover letter and resume to:

Personnel Department, 1825 10th Street, Gering, NE 69341
Fax: 308-436-7163
Email: Personnel@scottsbluffcountyne.gov

Open until position is filled.

Deputy Public Defender Job Description

NATURE OF WORK

This is entry level professional legal work as an attorney on the Public Defender’s legal staff preparatory to assuming the more independent duties of an Attorney II.

Work involves performing professional legal work with some supervision initially by more experienced attorneys. The major emphasis of the duties of this class include preparation of misdemeanor, juvenile criminal and civil cases for trail; defending cases with some supervision; assisting in the preparation and presentation of felony criminal cases in District and Appellate Courts. Employees within this class are subject to more supervision in the conduct of trial work with the nature of work less difficult and demanding compared to higher level attorneys. An employee in this class receives supervision in the form of trial support and consultation from an
attorney of a higher level. Work is evaluated in terms of the effectiveness of the preparation and/or presentation of cases and the soundness of legal options.

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED

Research the law and write memorandums and briefs for presentation in assigned cases; prepare briefs and make oral arguments for presentation to Court.

Investigate, prepare and defend misdemeanor and felony cases with supervision; assists other staff attorneys in preparing and defending felony criminal cases and Appellate Court cases, as assigned.

Consult and review work on preparation of cases with higher level attorneys in order to learn departmental practices and procedures.

Interview clients, client families, expert witnesses and related case individuals; investigate facts in order to advise clients about recommended procedures in assigned cases.

Prepare legal opinions, memorandum and data for higher attorneys; prepare first drafts of new and amended statutes, opinions or legislation.

Advise clients of their right to seek review of adverse decisions through Appellate Courts; provide representation at sentencing, including innovative alternative sentencing proposals.

DESIRABLE KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Some knowledge of constitutional law, state statutory law and Court rules.

Knowledge of judicial procedures and of the rules of evidence and Court rules.

Some knowledge of Defense Trial Advocacy.

Ability to analyze, appraise and organize the facts, evidences and precedents concerned in cases, and to present such material orally and in writing in clear and logical form.

Ability to prepare, present and argue cases in Court and assist more experienced attorneys in the same activities.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, the public,
coworkers, and justice system personnel.

DESIRABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from an accredited College of Law with some experience as a practicing attorney.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from an accredited College of Law.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Membership in the Nebraska State Bar Association with eligibility to practice law in the State of Nebraska.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Will be required to pass NIMS (National Incident Management System) training.
Will be required to complete all required training.