Deputy Public Defender I - IV

Overview

DEPUTY PUBLIC DEFENDER I - IV

County of Humboldt Public Defender's Office

Are you interested in making a difference? If so, please consider joining our dedicated team at the County of Humboldt Public Defender's Office!

What You'll Do

This position is responsible for a variety of duties, including :

• Prepares the defense for court-referred cases in a variety of felony and misdemeanor cases.
• Confers with clients, advising them of charges and legal rights; reviews police reports and explains legal procedures; arranges for the release of in-custody clients if possible; explores potential admission to state mental health facilities.
• Conducts pretrial case preparation, legal research and necessary investigation; coordinates investigative activities with Public Defender Investigator staff.
• Represents clients at arraignments, pretrials, jury trials, and other hearings as appropriate.
• Prepares suppression motions, motions to dismiss, motions to withdraw a plea, appellate briefs, and motions related to deportation considerations.
• Investigates and prepares responses to prosecution claims; negotiates with prosecution attorneys for case disposition or modification.
• Performs trial work including jury selection, examination and cross-examination and argument of the defense case.
• Prepares a variety of legal documentation, including reports, correspondence and opinions related to client cases; maintains accurate records and files.
• Monitors legal developments, including proposed legislation and court decisions; evaluates their impact on public defense activities and recommends action.
• Directs the work of professional and support staff as assigned (as applicable to level).

Where You'll Do It

This position is located in Eureka, California.

A typical work schedule for this position is Monday–Friday, 8 : 00 a.m.–5 : 00 p.m.

Position Details

Notes

This is a continuous recruitment and Human Resources reserves the right to close recruitment at any time. The bulletin was updated on 05 / 28 / 2025 to include the I - IV levels for consideration.

Definition

Under general supervision, performs legal work of routine to complex nature; provides public defense and legal services for court-referred cases; performs related work as assigned.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a multi-level class; incumbents may be assigned to any of four levels depending on experience and case complexity. The work may involve felonies and misdemeanors and includes providing legal defense for indigent clients. As levels progress, involvement in formal litigation, discretionary powers, and direction of other staff increases. Deputy Public Defender IV is the highest non-supervisory level, capable of working independently on complex cases and guiding less experienced staff. Deputy Public Defender IV can direct / assist with defense through pretrial to appeal. This class is distinct from Assistant Public Defender, which is supervisory with broader responsibility and may act as Public Defender on a relief basis.

Qualifications & Experience

Knowledge

Principles and practice of criminal law, especially defense of court-referred clients; legal research and investigation; judicial procedures and rules of evidence; state and federal laws affecting public defense from pretrial through appeal.

Skills

Defining issues; conducting legal research; presenting facts and argument clearly; exercising independent judgment within policy and legal parameters; interpreting laws; representing clients effectively in hearings; preparing clear written materials; establishing professional relationships.

Other Requirements

Must possess a valid California driver's license and be a current member of the California State Bar Association.

Desirable Education & Experience

Additional Information

How to Apply

A complete, original application must be filed for each position. Apply online through the County's automated system at https : / / www.governmentjobs.com / careers / humboldtcountyca . Applications must be submitted by the final filing date. Incomplete applications will be rejected. Your application should show all relevant education and experience; resumes / attachments are not reviewed.

Selection Procedure

Applications will be screened; qualified applicants may be invited to oral and / or written examinations. Meeting requirements does not guarantee selection. Process may include additional screening, examinations, or interviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We are committed to a diverse, inclusive workplace and encourage applicants from protected classes to apply, recognizing structural factors that may affect qualifications.

Reasonable Accommodations

The County provides equal access and opportunities. If you need accommodations for an examination, contact Human Resources at 707-476-2349.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The County is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination based on protected characteristics.

Other Examinations & Licenses

Some positions require medical or psychological evaluations, background checks, licenses, or a valid California driver's license as applicable.

Probationary Period

Regular County positions have a probationary period (typically six months; may be up to one year). Some safety positions have a one-year probation.

Employment Eligibility & Disaster Service Workers

It is the County's intention to hire authorized workers. All County employees are Disaster Service Workers and may be required to complete related training and respond during emergencies.

Disclaimer The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract. The County reserves the right to modify the examination plan as needed.

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