Job Information
Kalamazoo County Government Attorney III - Senior Assistant Prosecutor in Kalamazoo, Michigan
GENERAL SUMMARY
The purpose of this job is to represent citizens in criminal, quasi-criminal, and civil matters by reviewing, enforcing, and litigating the applicable laws. Conducts screening, charging, and handling complex felonies, including capital and homicide cases in the Appellate, Circuit, District, and Family courts. Completes trial preparations, including reviewing and assessing investigative reports and evidence. Reviews charging requests and assigns cases and projects to staff. Ensures completion of tasks, develops procedures and best practices, monitors performances, and provides legal and tactical strategies to other assistant prosecutors. Advises staff concerning changes in the law and ensures compliance with federal and state regulations.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supervises the work of assigned personnel, including assigning and reviewing work, providing guidance, and providing input for performance evaluations.
- Represents the citizens on behalf of Appellate, Circuit, District, and Family courts by reviewing, enforcing, and litigating applicable laws.
- Screens, charges, and handles complex felonies, including capital and homicide cases; authorizes or denies criminal charges and civil petitions.
- Advises in investigation actions, including requesting law enforcement to investigate further, initiating cases in foreign jurisdictions, and utilizing subpoenas.
- Prepares and files motions, stipulations, responses to defense pleadings, and other legal actions for upcoming and current trials.
- Researches, evaluates, and investigates in preparation for trials, including recording accurate disposition notes and consulting with potential expert witnesses.
- Directs legal assistants and victim advocates regarding producing exhibits for hearings, trials, and subpoena issuance.
- Addresses and approves safety accommodations for victims, witnesses, and other community members.
- Responds to case inquiries and legal questions from victims, witnesses, law enforcement, clients, and the public; meets with victims to discuss strengths and weaknesses of a case, potential solutions or pleas, and explains judicial processes for high-visibility or complex cases.
- Advises other assistant prosecutors on legal and tactical strategies.
- Trains junior staff on changes to federal, state, and local laws and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance in prosecutorial procedures.
- Participates in continuing legal education and best practices, including attending training and seminars and serving as a faculty member.
- Performs related work as required.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Required Education and Experience
- Juris Doctor from an accredited law school
- 5 to 7 years of related work experience as a prosecutor or significant felony trial experience.
- Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities
Required Licenses or Certifications
- Licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan.
VETERANS: Please provide your joint services transcript with your application.
County positions include a benefits package{cke-saved-href="https://www.kalcounty.com/eif/benefits/Summary of Benefits for Non-Union Full Time Employees 2024.pdf"} with medical coverage, paid leave, and much more. Available supplemental dental and vision. Defined Benefit pension after the vesting period.