Career Opportunities

Part Time Public Defender

Department: Legal

Public Defender (Part-Time / PRN)

The City of Cayce is seeking a qualified and dedicated attorney to serve as a Part-Time or PRN Public Defender. This flexible public service opportunity is ideal for an attorney seeking meaningful criminal defense work, courtroom experience, and the opportunity to ensure access to justice for indigent defendants in Municipal Court.

Position Overview: The Public Defender provides legal representation to indigent defendants appearing before the Cayce Municipal Court. This position serves on an as-needed basis and is responsible for advocating on behalf of clients throughout the legal process, from initial court appearances through case resolution.

Key Responsibilities

  • Represent indigent defendants in Cayce Municipal Court proceedings.
  • Provide court coverage, including regularly scheduled sessions:
    • Tuesdays at 8:00 a.m.
    • Thursdays at 2:30 p.m.
  • Handle pretrial proceedings, motions, and jury trials as assigned.
  • Meet with clients to discuss charges, legal rights, case strategy, and available options.
  • Evaluate evidence, review case files, and prepare legal defenses.
  • Advise clients regarding plea agreements, trial strategy, sentencing considerations, and case outcomes.
  • Maintain timely and professional communication with clients and, when appropriate, their families.
  • Advocate zealously on behalf of clients while adhering to all ethical and professional obligations.
  • Collaborate with court personnel, prosecutors, law enforcement, and other legal professionals to facilitate case resolution.
  • Maintain accurate case records and documentation.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
  • Active membership in good standing with the South Carolina Bar.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Strong legal research, writing, negotiation, and courtroom advocacy skills.
  • Ability to work independently while managing multiple cases and deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in criminal defense, public defense, or courtroom litigation.
  • Familiarity with South Carolina criminal law and Municipal Court procedures.
  • Trial experience and demonstrated courtroom advocacy skills.
  • Commitment to public service and ensuring access to quality legal representation.

Work Schedule: This position offers a flexible, as-needed schedule with no fixed weekly hours.

Availability is required for:

  • Scheduled Municipal Court sessions.
  • Pretrial hearings and jury trials.
  • Client consultations and case preparation activities.
  • Communication with clients, court staff, and legal professionals as needed.

Compensation: The City of Cayce offers flexible compensation options based on candidate qualifications and availability:

  • Contract Position: Hourly compensation based on experience.
  • Part-Time Employee Position: Salary and benefits package available for eligible candidates.

Why Join Cayce?

Serving as a Public Defender for the City of Cayce provides an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the community. This role offers rewarding courtroom experience, professional autonomy, and the chance to uphold the principles of fairness, due process, and equal access to justice. Whether you are an experienced defense attorney or a legal professional seeking impactful part-time public service work, we encourage you to apply.

The City of Cayce is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Employees and contractors may be assigned additional duties reasonably related to the performance of this position and the effective operation of Municipal Court services.

Apply online for this position.

 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The City of Cayce is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is an At-Will employer, as allowed by applicable state law.

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