Assistant Commonwealth Attorney

Commonwealth Attorney’s Office

Part-Time, 12 months

Non-Exempt, Pay Grade 22

About the Albemarle County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office

The Albemarle County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office is dedicated to pursuing justice and protecting the rights and safety of the citizens of Albemarle and its visitors.  As part of that mission, we work to enhance public safety and welfare through the vigorous enforcement of criminal laws in a fair, compassionate, ethical and just manner. We believe that in order to accomplish this mission the office should maintain a pro-active role in our community by working to prevent crime in addition to its mandate to prosecute with integrity, equality and excellence.  It is in this way that we best serve the safety of our community and uphold our oath to protect and defend the Constitution of Virginia and the Constitution of the United States.

Assistant Commonwealth Attorney- Job Summary

The Commonwealth Attorney’s Office is actively seeking an experienced Attorney for our part-time Assistant Commonwealth Attorney position. The successful candidate will serve as prosecuting attorney for the Commonwealth of Virginia in all criminal matters pending before the Albemarle County General District Court, the Albemarle County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, and the Albemarle County Circuit Court, and on occasion act as special prosecutor in other jurisdictions within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

THE EXPECTATIONS

Key functions and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Prosecute most misdemeanor cases before the General District Court
• Prosecute misdemeanor cases before the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
• Prosecute some felony preliminary hearings before the General District Court
• Prosecute felony preliminary hearings before the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
• Prosecute felony bench and jury trials and misdemeanor appeals before the Circuit Court
• Assist senior prosecutors in preparation and trial of murder cases before the Circuit Court Write briefs and Memoranda on Motions Filed in the Circuit Court Argue Suppression Motions and other Motions before the Circuit and General District Courts
• Prepare Appellate Briefs for use by the Commonwealth in the Virginia Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of Virginia
• Advise law enforcement on all legal matters involving the investigation and prosecution of criminal conduct
• Develop and Conduct formal training on Virginia laws and the United States Constitution for law enforcement
• Advise and work with governmental agencies and the public in coordinated efforts to ensure and enhance crime prevention and public safety
• Make relevant presentations to community groups on law enforcement
• Performs related work as assigned

Performs related tasks as required.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. Graduation from an accredited law school or completion of all necessary requirements in legal education program after having read Virginia law. Must be an active member in good standing with the Virginia State Bar and hold a license in good standing from the Virginia Supreme Court. A minimum of one year of previous experience as prosecutor or a minimum of five years of experience as a practicing attorney.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Comprehensive knowledge of Virginia criminal and traffic laws, Virginia criminal procedures, Virginia and Federal constitutional issues, as well as local rules of court and trial practice. Ability to perform intricate and rapid legal research, and to prepare legal briefs to trial and appellate courts. Ability to communicate effectively with law enforcement personnel, expert witnesses, lay witnesses, and victim witnesses. Ability to prepare and present complex cases before a trial court in a short period of time. Comprehensive working knowledge of efficient office procedures, and the ability to establish and maintain constructive, effective and professional relationships with fellow attorneys, public officials, judicial officers and the public. Ability to present ideas and provide counsel effectively in writing and orally to professionals and lay persons. Ability to manage a large caseload. Knowledge of computerized word processing, email communications and electronic case management system.

THE PHYSICAL CONDITIONS AND NATURE OF WORK CONTACTS

Work is typically performed in an office or courtroom setting. Occasional requirement to visit major crime scene. Second-line contact with witnesses and defendants, who on occasion are rude, hostile and angry. Occasional exposure to evidence and human bodily fluids that may be contaminated. Considerable skill in tact and diplomacy is necessary. Daily contact is made with, judges of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, clerks of court, law enforcement officers, other legal professionals, the general public in person, by telephone and by written communications. Considerable skill in diplomacy, tact and persuasion is necessary.

THE SALARY RANGE

The salary range for this position is $ 35.42 - $42.51 per hour. Starting offer is based on applicable education beyond minimum, experience and internal equity. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Friday, August 31, 2019 11:59 p.m. EST

PROCESS: For consideration please apply at https://albemarleva.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx

Learn more about the County as a great place to live at http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/forms_center/departments/Albemarle/forms/2016_New_Residents%20Guide.pdf

For additional information visit: Albemarle County Human Resources at http://www.albemarle.org/hr

EOE/EEO