Certified Legal Intern

The starting rate of this nonunion position is $18.34/hour.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provides legal representation for indigent persons at Summary Hearings, Preliminary Hearings, Mental Health Hearings, State Parole Violation Hearings, Appeals, and Juvenile Court.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Functions:

1. Represent* Public Defender Clients at Summary Hearings;    
2. Represent* Public Defender Clients at Preliminary Hearings; 
3. Represent* Public Defender Clients at Mental Health Hearings;         
4. Represent* Public Defender Clients at State Parole Violations;          
5. Prepares appellate briefs and argues appellate issues before Appeals Court.    
6. Represent* Public Defender Clients in Juvenile Court.            
7. Representation includes meeting clients, evaluating case and evidence, providing advice to client, negotiation with police and District Attorney’s Office as well as conducting hearings.      

Non-Essential Functions:   

1. Filing documents and client files;          
2. Miscellaneous typing and data entry.    

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited Law School.
• Must have certification from the PA Supreme Court to perform as a Certified Legal Intern

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• General knowledge of Pennsylvania Criminal Law; and
• Ability to use Windows based computer programs;
• Possess good problem solving and organization abilities; and
• Possess good oratory and decision-making skills; and
• Excellent interpersonal skills; and
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to handle stress.
• Physical presence in office & field required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Will frequently be required to sit for extended periods of time, stand, walk, talk and hear. Will work with office equipment, which can create eye strain.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Normal office & court room environment. May require travel inside & outside of Berks County. May require travel to Berks County Prison, State Prison, as well as meeting within custody clients. Must have access to transportation.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.