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SummaryThe Chief Deputy District Attorney (DDA_III) reviews, prepares and tries criminal cases in Jefferson County; presents juvenile delinquency and dependency cases in juvenile court; provides related legal advice to law enforcement agencies and the Community Justice Department; and other functions as required; performs related legal research and writing. Primary caseload responsibility involves felony and misdemeanor level crimes. This position is for the fully experienced trial attorney who is also responsible for supervising a trial team consisting of attorneys and staff. Attorneys at this level are expected to competently handle the most difficult cases. The Chief Deputy District Attorney may supervise other attorneys in varying degrees and perform administrative duties as assigned by the District Attorney.

Distinguishing CharacteristicsThis position works under the direction of the District Attorney and Chief Deputy. A high degree of professional competence and personal integrity is expected in this position. Represents the State and acts as principal attorney in charge of preparation and presentation of cases of great importance. This position assists the Chief Deputy in supervising and training the Deputy District Attorneys on a daily basis and provides consultation on difficult or unusual cases and may supervise the entire staff in the absence of the District Attorney and Chief Deputy District Attorney.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Examine investigation reports and determine if further investigation is needed; file charges as appropriate.- Prepare or assist in the preparation of affidavits, search warrants, arrest warrants, legal memoranda, motions, court orders, and other legal documents filed in court; researches legal issues when needed.- Appear as scheduled in circuit court for arraignments, release hearings, motion hearings, plea proceedings, and sentencings, and trials to present the state’s case and argument before a judge or jury.- Meet with and interview victims and other witnesses; identify necessary witnesses for hearings or trial and direct the preparation of subpoenas and other notices of court events.- Negotiate case resolution with defense as appropriate, and in accordance with the facts of the case, the law and office policy.- As assigned, prepare cases for presentation to the grand jury, interview witnesses, advise grand jury on law, complete indictments, warrants, and other documents pertaining to the grand jury as required.- As assigned, prepare and present cases at trial in circuit court which includes subpoena and interview of witnesses, and preparation of jury instructions and verdict forms, presentation of evidence and argument.- Consult and advise police on an on-call basis pertaining to investigations and related legal questions.- Assist in the supervision of the Deputy District Attorneys. Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the County’s policies and procedures.- Provide support and assist in the development of the Deputy District Attorneys.- Perform related work as required for all duties outlined above and any other duties as assigned.- Regular attendance is an essential function of the position.

Knowledge and SkillsExpert knowledge of substantive and procedural criminal law; skilled in legal research and writing and use of computer, i.e.: Lexis, Oregon Revised Statutes and Case Law; DACMS; MS Word.

AbilitiesAbility to analyze facts, evidence and precedents and to arrive at logical conclusions; ability to set forth findings of fact and decisions in concise written forms; ability to prioritize workload and assignments; ability to deal effectively with the public, witnesses, victims and law enforcement personnel. Ability to give formal presentations to the general public, instruct people in small groups or a one-on-one basis, convey technical concepts to others and work as a team.

Physical AbilitiesAbility to sit or stand at a desk, work at a computer screen and use rapid finger, hand and arm movement for extended periods of time. Ability to present information in a Courtroom for extended periods of time. Ability to speak effectively and clearly.

Education and ExperienceBachelor’s Degree and Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school with 4-6 years progressively responsible work experience as an attorney. Preference is at least 1 year experience supervising a trial team.

Licenses and CertificatesMember of the Oregon Bar at the time of appointment and must maintain good standing with the Oregon State Bar through the term of employment. Must have a valid Oregon Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record.

Working ConditionsWork is generally performed indoors in an office environment. Employee must become a resident of Jefferson County within 12 months of employment or maintain a residence within a 60-minute response time to the Jefferson County Courthouse. Residency or response-time compliance must be maintained as a condition of employment.

Probationary RequirementThis position is based on the successful completion of a 12-month probationary period.