As a Public Defender, you will represent indigent individuals charged with criminal offenses in Sumter County, serving the community by guaranteeing the fundamental right to counsel. You can expect to spend a lot of time in the courtroom where you’ll try criminal cases, argue motions, and negotiate plea bargains. To prepare for your duties in court, you will participate in case investigation including crime scene investigation, interview witnesses and victims, examine evidence, research legal issues, evaluate and prepare witnesses for trial, and assist in jury selection. In addition to your daily work as a Public Defender, you’ll also have opportunities to attend professional conferences, trainings, seminars, and workshops, and participate in various community and civic organizations.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Conducts initial case evaluations as assigned: reviews case file and analyzes the facts and evidence of the case; assesses client eligibility and needs; reviews criminal histories; determines appropriateness of diversion, dismissal, or charges; reviews accuracy of jurisdiction, venue, and scope of arrest powers; ensures sufficient probable cause; prepares or reviews charges and discovery; and prepares for arraignment. Investigates, analyzes, and prepares assigned cases for hearings and trials: interviews clients in and out of custody; requests and inspects records and evidence; prepares graphics and exhibits; makes investigative requests and follows up on leads; obtains and reviews lab results and analysis; identifies and interviews witnesses and verifies alibis; observes crime scenes; subpoenas witnesses and prepares them for trial; prepares client for trial; determines need for, procures, and interviews expert witnesses; assesses need for and coordinates psychological or other evaluation of client; anticipates legal issues; and develops case strategies. Represents assigned clients at arraignments, preliminary and pre-trial hearings and conferences, probation and sentencing, post-adjudication/post-conviction hearings, alternative and diversion programs, specialty courts, or any related courtroom proceedings: prepares and argues motions and evidence; negotiates and presents plea resolutions; negotiates at all stages on behalf of the client; advises clients regarding the acceptance or rejection of plea offers; and participates in jury selection, opening and closing statements, evidence presentation, witness questioning, and bond/sentencing recommendations; performs other related duties as required.
Requires a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school. Must possess and maintain a valid South Carolina Driver’s license. Must possess and maintain licensure from the South Carolina Bar Association
The Third Judicial Circuit includes, Clarendon, Lee, Sumter & Williamsburg Counties. The Third Circuit Public Defender Office, a strictly administrative office is located in the Administering County of Sumter.
