Job Description
Assistant Public Defender, Mental Health Unit The candidate will maintain a caseload of clients with serious mental health diagnoses and/or intellectual disabilities through every aspect of criminal and/or civil commitment proceedings. Develop expertise in mental health/intellectual disability law and social services related to representation in criminal and civil commitment proceedings. Direct personal consultation with clients from the inception of the legal proceedings through their completion. The preparation of persuasive legal arguments to advocate for the client’s interest at each stage of the legal proceeding. Overseeing the discovery, collection, and presentation of all facts that support clients’ interests at each stage of the legal proceedings. Engaging in holistic representation practices that attempt to assist the client in collateral matters that impact the direct legal representation of the client. Working within the organization to advocate for structural change that will benefit the interest of public defender clients. Assisting colleagues in developing effective representation strategies for clients with mental health diagnoses or intellectual disabilities. Performing related work, at the request of the Defender or First Assistant, when necessary. Should have been graduated from an accredited law school and be members in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or be able to waive-in based on good-standing membership in another State’s Bar. Have demonstrated commitment to indigent criminal defense and/or public interest law. Superior oral and written communication skills are required. Have excellent research skills. Have a strong work ethic and the ability to manage a demanding workload. The desire to work in a collaborative environment committed to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusiveness is essential. Preferably have strong experience in criminal law and the Mental Health population. A strong understanding of The Pennsylvania Mental Health Act and Mental Health - specific defenses in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is needed.
