Deputy Public Defender II

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Deputy Public Defender II

Salary

$102,719.70 - $123,855.96 Annually

Location

Santa Maria, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

24-2301-01 (O)

Department

Public Defender

Opening Date

04/19/2024

Closing Date

Continuous

Description

*Notice of change: This recruitment will remain open until filled.

SALARY
    $102,719.70 - $123,855.96 Annually
Bilingual allowance when applicable

The Public Defender’s Office is accepting applications to fill one full-time Deputy Public Defender II vacancy in Santa Maria.
 
To be considered for the current vacancy, you must select the “Santa Maria” location on your application; however, you must be willing to travel to and willing to accept assignment in all locations (Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, and Lompoc). This position may be transferred to another primary location based on the needs of the department.
 
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Deputy Public Defender I/II/III/IV/Senior is a flexibly staffed series. Advancement within the series is dependent upon both seniority and performance.
 
Deputy Public Defenders II are expected to further develop their litigation skills, and demonstrate competency in handling a variety of more serious cases (in terms of potential penalty for the client) in the trial courts. Typical duties may include: assignment to serious misdemeanor trials, juvenile court cases, or civil cases. Incumbents obtain significant jury trial experience. As the incumbents demonstrate competency at the II level, they may be assigned minor felony trials.
 
About the Department: The County of Santa Barbara Public Defender’s Office represents people living in poverty who have been traditionally marginalized from a holistic and client-centered perspective. We stand with our clients every day in many courtrooms and now Zoom rooms across Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, and Lompoc. Standing with our client includes bringing to bear resources of lawyers, legal office professionals, investigators, social workers, IT professionals, and others to craft the best defenses and most successful reentry plans that elevate our client’s needs.
 
Public defenders in Santa Barbara County work every day with people living on the street, living with a lack of appropriate services, and living with a host of complex needs. We use the tools of litigation, trial, negotiation, diversion, and services-based solutions to assist our clients every day. We walk with adults and children into arraignments, misdemeanors, felonies, trials, and advocate in mental health, veterans, and drug specialty courts to avoid the potentially lifelong and crushing aftermath of criminal cases, involuntary commitment, or unresponsive probate or conservatorship situations. We enhance public safety by holding the legal system to uphold the constitutional and statutory rights of our community and honor their spaces, stories, and struggles. We are an organization that grapples with issues of racial justice and equity to heal the past injustices that influence our community daily. Further, we work alongside community-based organizations to create more opportunities for restoration, healing, and the future success of our clients.  The Department has a budget of approximately $22 million and a staff of approximately 120 energetic advocates.
 
For more information about the Public Defender's Office, go to: http://countyofsb.org/defender
 
THE POSITION:  Under direction, the selected candidate interviews, advises, and represents clients in authorized criminal and civil cases; structures and directs investigations; prepares trials, pleadings, and motions; tries cases before court and jury; effectively presents sentencing and disposition positions on behalf of clients; and performs related duties as required and appropriate.
 
 The IDEAL CANDIDATE will have:
 
  • Experience appearing in Court; 
  • Microsoft Office Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams skills;
  • Demonstrated ability to operate specialized case management and tracking system software programs;
  • Strong conflict resolution skills;
  • Excellent customer service skills and experience working with the public;
  • The ability to effectively manage multiple situations occurring simultaneously;
  • Exceptional organization skills and ability to work efficiently on multiple projects at one time;
  • The ability to prepare and write clear and concise motions, and keep records organized accordingly;
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain sound working relationships with people of diverse backgrounds and personalities;
  • Adaptability, a positive attitude, and an impeccable character;
  • Calm demeanor under all circumstances;
  • The ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work, and meet critical deadlines;
  • The ability to multi-task, handle high-stress situations, thrive under pressure and adapt to change;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to handle challenging situations and people with tact and diplomacy;
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills which include the ability to exchange information in a clear, concise, and organized manner with diverse groups of people to help them understand process objectives and priorities;
  • The ability to work successfully in a team environment, make positive contributions, and assist others as necessary;
  • The ability to tackle complex legal issues using sound judgment, legal research, investigative practices, and analytical skills;
  • The ability to maintain confidentiality;
  • Bilingual skills in English & Spanish and/or Mixteco is desirable, but not a requirement. Note: The hiring department will test you on your fluency.

Examples of Duties

  1. Interviews clients regarding prospective criminal or civil actions and advises them of their rights and legal options; structures and directs investigations; reviews evidence; interviews witnesses and prepares them to testify.
       
  2. Conducts legal research; analyzes statutes, case law, evidence, and other relevant information to develop case strategies.
       
  3. Prepares for trials; negotiates with prosecuting authorities on disposition and modification of cases; appears with and for clients in court hearings, makes appropriate legal motions, pleas, and arguments on points of law; participates in jury selection; makes final arguments and summations in defense of the accused in trial courts.
       
  4. Prepares petitions, briefs, arguments, motions, pleadings, other legal instruments, reports, and correspondence, and argues in the appropriate forum.

Employment Standards

Active membership in the State Bar of California AND possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License; AND not less than:
 

  1. One year of experience as an attorney in the practice of public law or two years as a general practicing attorney; OR,
  2. One year of experience performing duties equivalent to the class of Deputy Public Defender I with Santa Barbara County; OR, 
  3. A combination of training, education, and experience that is equivalent to the employment standard listed above and that provides the required knowledge, abilities, and license.
Knowledge of: the principles of criminal and civil law and their application; legal research methods; the organization, powers, and limitations of county governmental functions; California civil and criminal codes; the U.S. and California Constitutions; rules of evidence, trial procedures; administrative law; ethical and professional rules of conduct; negotiating techniques.
 
Ability to: perform legal research; analyze and apply legal principles and precedents, facts, and evidence to legal problems; present statements of law, facts, and arguments clearly, logically, and effectively, in both written and oral format; work cooperatively with and represent persons from a wide variety of socioeconomic backgrounds; maintain confidentiality and objectivity; work effectively with others, often under stressful conditions; manage a caseload; interview witnesses; negotiate settlements; present and conduct trials; understand and apply policies and practices.
 
Desirable Qualifications:  The ability to read, write, and converse fluently in English and Spanish and/or Mixteco is desirable. Note: You must self-certify on the application form that you are fluent in English and Spanish and/or Mixteco. Hiring departments will test you on your fluency. If you do not demonstrate sufficient fluency, your name may be withheld from future certifications or removed from the employment lists.

Supplemental Information

APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS:
 

  1. Review applications and supplemental questionnaires to determine those applicants who meet the employment standards.
  2. Supplemental Questionnaire Ranking:  Applications that meet the employment standards will be evaluated and auto-scored. Candidates' final score and rank on the eligibility list will be determined by the information provided on their application. This includes the responses to the required supplemental questionnaire. This process may be eliminated if there are fewer than 11 qualified candidates.
Candidates must receive a percentage score of at least 70 on the Supplemental Questionnaire Ranking examination to be placed on an employment list. An adjustment may be made to raw scores based on factors listed in Civil Service Rule VI. Those candidates who are successful in the selection process will have their names placed on the employment list for a minimum of three months. At the time the employment list is established, all qualified candidates will receive an email notice of their score on the exam(s), rank on the employment list, and exact duration of the employment list.
 
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS: The County of Santa Barbara is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants. Qualified individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or selection process should contact the recruiter listed on the job posting. We require verification of needed accommodation from a professional source, such as a Medical Provider or a learning institution.
 
Recruiters will correspond with applicants by e-mail during each step in the recruitment process. Applicants are reminded to check spam filters continuously during the Recruitment & Selection Process steps listed above to ensure they do not miss required deadlines.
 
Conditional Job Offer: Once a conditional offer of employment has been made, the candidate will be required to successfully complete a background check, which includes a conviction history check, and satisfactory reference checks. Appointee will be subject to a post-offer medical evaluation or examination. The appointee must satisfactorily complete a probationary period of one year.  
 
BENEFITS: The County of Santa Barbara offers generous benefits, please click here for information on benefits. In addition, applicants from other public sector employers may qualify for:

  • Retirement reciprocity
  • Time and service credit towards an advanced vacation accrual rate
Disaster Service Worker: Pursuant to Governmental Code section 3100, all employees with the County of Santa Barbara are declared to be disaster service workers subject to such disaster service. Activities as may be assigned to them by their superiors or by law.
 
Statement of Commitment
The County of Santa Barbara is dedicated to cultivating and sustaining an environment that exhibits equity and inclusion everywhere, and at all levels of our organization.  The County believes equity is a fundamental principle that must be imbedded in policies, institutional practices and systems. The County recognizes the negative impacts of systemic racism and is committed to eliminating the barriers affecting our Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and Asian community members, as well as people of other diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. We envision a world where society and its systems (e.g. education, criminal justice, and health care, housing the economy) are just, fair, and inclusive, enabling all people to participate and reach their full potential.
   
We celebrate community and employee diversity, strive for inclusion and belonging, and promote empowered participation. We aspire to build a workforce that is reflective of these values and the communities we serve. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and will resolutely uphold federal, California state law and/or Santa Barbara County ordinances.
   
We believe equity and inclusion are vital to fulfill the County’s mission and to embody a culture of “One County, One Future.” Expanding the full range of employee talent allows the County to deliver our best to all our community members.
   
We believe in the dignity and humanity of all people. We strive for a healthy and prosperous society that promotes all people having equitable access and opportunity.
 
APPLICATION AND SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE DEADLINE: Open until filled. Applications and job bulletins can be obtained 24 hours a day at www.sbcountyjobs.com.
 
 Erin Kuhn, Employment Analyst II – erkuhn@countyofsb.org

Retirement Plans                                                     

  • Generous County Defined Benefit Plan
  • Eligible to participate in 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Retirement Reciprocity with CalPERS, CalSTRS, and 1937 Act plans
  • For more information on our retirement plans, please visit: https://www.sbcers.org/ and http://www.santabarbara457.com
Health Benefits
  • Choice of dental, vision and medical plans. In addition to the Benefit Allowance noted above, the County contributes toward medical premiums and dental premiums
  • On-Site Employee Health Clinics in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria which provide ongoing and episodic services to eligible employees and their eligible dependents 
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential assistance with personal and workplace problems to employees and their immediate family members
  • Healthcare Advocacy Program to help employees navigate the complexities of health plan benefits
  • Available Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Account (HSA), Supplemental Term or Whole Life Insurance, Personal Accident Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance and more!
  • For more information on our health benefits, please visit: https://www.countyofsb.org/4012/Health-Benefits
Paid Time Off
  • Vacation Leave 12 to 25 days per year depending on length of public employment
  • Sick Leave 12 days annually with unlimited accumulation, one year of which can be converted to service credit upon retirement
  • Paid Holidays based on bargaining unit (view the compensation summary for this bargaining unit, link below)
  • Alternative Transportation Benefit (TDM) up to 2 days of additional vacation for using alternative methods of commuting
  • For more information on Paid Time Off please view the Compensation Summary for this bargaining unit (available below)
Miscellaneous Benefits
  • County Paid Term Life Insurance
  • County Paid Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Childcare and Employee Discounts
  • Relocation Assistance may apply
  • Flexible work schedule may apply
  • For more information on all of these benefits, please visit: https://www.countyofsb.org/4013/24636/WorkLife-Benefits
Compensation Summary

 
*This benefits list is for convenience only; please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding for complete details of terms and conditions. Amounts are generally prorated for part-time employment.

01
I acknowledge it is my responsibility as an applicant to provide sufficient information on my application to demonstrate that my education and experience meet the employment standards (minimum qualifications) for this position as detailed in the job bulletin. I further acknowledge, if the County determines I do not meet the employment standards, there will be no opportunity for me to provide additional information regarding my application after the closing date listed on the job bulletin. Therefore, I understand that before submitting a job application, it is important I review the job bulletin thoroughly and ensure that my application clearly reflects how my education and experience meet the employment standards at the time I submit my application.
  • I understand.
02
As part of the application process, this Supplemental Questionnaire must be completed along with the standard application form. Resumes will be accepted, but NOT in lieu of a completed application and supplemental questionnaire.
  • I understand.
03
The Human Resources Department communicates with all applicants through e-mail. Please make sure your e-mail address is entered correctly, it is current, and that you check spam filters continuously during the recruitment and selection process to ensure you do not miss required deadlines.
  • I understand.
04
A valid California Driver's License is required at the time of appointment. A valid California Driver's License MUST be kept current as a condition of continued employment in this position.
  • I understand.
05
The current vacancy is located in Santa Maria. However, all candidates hired can be placed at any location and transferred to another location during your employment with the County. Please be sure to select all of the locations where you are willing to accept employment for current and future vacancies. Note – travel to all of these locations may be required depending on the business needs of the department.
  • I understand.
06
This position requires that you have an active membership in the State Bar of California at the time of application. Please select which one best describes your current status.
  • I am an active member of the State Bar of California.
  • I have passed the California State Bar exam and I am awaiting my bar license.
  • I am an active member of an Out-of-State Bar Association.
  • I have taken the California State Bar exam and I am awaiting my test results.
  • I am not a member of any Bar Association.
07
If you have an active membership with the California State Bar, please provide the date it was issued and license number. The hiring department may request a copy for verification. If you do not have an active membership, type "N/A."
08
To be considered for this position, your application must CLEARLY state how you meet the requirements under EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS on the Job Bulletin or you will not be considered for this position. If you are unsure, go back and review your application before continuing. Which Employment Standard do you meet and clearly state on your application? Active membership in the State Bar of California AND not less than:
  • One year of experience as an attorney in the practice of public law or two years as a general practicing attorney.
  • One year of experience performing duties equivalent to the class of Deputy Public Defender I with Santa Barbara County.
  • A combination of training, education, and experience that is equal to the qualifications listed above and that provides the required knowledge and abilities listed on the job bulletin.
  • None of the above - I do not meet the minimum qualifications for this position.
09
If you selected the third answer option for the preceding supplemental question, "A combination of training, education, and experience that is equivalent...," then please describe in detail how your combined training, education and experience qualifies you for this position. If you did not select this option, type "N/A."
10
Do you have experience working in a high case volume court environment with multiple situations occurring simultaneously?
  • Yes
  • No
11
The following questions are an EXAMINATION that will determine your ranking on the employment list. Please read and answer them carefully. I understand my responses to the following supplemental questions will be SCORED and used as a weighed, scored selection device that will determine my ranking on the employment list for this job. For information on protest procedures for the supplemental questionnaire, please see Civil Service Rules 612 and 613: http://www.countyofsb.org/hr/civil-service-rules/rule-six.sbc#six-612?
  • I understand.
12
How many criminal jury trials have you tried to verdict as the attorney of record?
  • 3 or more criminal jury trials
  • 1 to 2 criminal jury trials
  • None
13
Select the ONE choice that most accurately reflects any experience you may possess working in a Public Defender's Office or as a Criminal Defense Attorney (Full details of this experience/position(s) should be listed on your completed application).
  • More than two years of experience as a practicing Public Defender or Criminal Defense Attorney.
  • Between one and two years of experience as a practicing Public Defender or Criminal Defense Attorney.
  • Less than one year of experience as a practicing Public Defender or Criminal Defense Attorney.
  • No prior Public Defender or Criminal Defense Attorney experience.
14
Select the ONE choice that most accurately reflects any experience you possess filing criminal law motions or orally arguing motions on behalf of clients. This choice should indicate your role and responsibility for representing the client (full details of this experience/position(s) should be listed on your completed application). Substantive motions to consider are 1538.5, 995, Motions in Limine, et al. Do not include any 1050 or boilerplate motions.
  • Responsible for filing or orally arguing 20 or more motions.
  • Responsible for filing or orally arguing 10-19 motions.
  • Responsible for filing or orally arguing 1-9 motions.
  • None of the above – No prior motions filed or orally argued.
15
Select all of the choices that most accurately reflect your experiences working with people of diverse cultures, experiences, economic backgrounds, and situations (Select all that apply).
  • Persons who speak languages other than English as their first language.
  • Persons with racial/ethnic backgrounds different from your own.
  • Persons with mental disabilities/diagnoses requiring special attention.
  • Persons experiencing housing instability.
  • Persons experiencing substance use issues.
  • Persons who cannot afford a lawyer for a defense in a criminal case.
  • Persons with significant past trauma experiences.
  • None of the above

Required Question

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