Attorney I

ABOUT THE ROLE - Full time, Unclassified position within the Legal Defender Department (Maricopa County Office of the Legal Defender) - Hybrid work arrangement based in Phoenix, AZ - Represents indigent clients appointed by the court who are charged with criminal felony offenses in the Early Disposition Court - Provides representation in all stages up to probable cause determination or case conclusion via sentencing, diversion, or dismissal, including initial appearances, status conferences, preliminary hearings, sentencings, mitigation hearings, restitution hearings, and negotiations - This recruitment is to fill two Attorney tier I vacancies KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Appear in court to represent clients at scheduled hearings and trials 2. Present oral arguments in support of clients' legal interests 3. Negotiate deals and resolutions with State attorneys on behalf of clients 4. Research facts and analyze legal issues using computerized and printed legal research tools 5. Compose motions, briefs, correspondence, and other legal documents 6. Prepare cases for court and review evidence on- and off-site 7. Discuss and present analyses of legal issues to clients, court personnel, and related individuals 8. Communicate in person and by phone with clients, opposing counsel, co-workers, and supervisors 9. Travel to courts, jails, detention centers, and correctional facilities to represent clients 10. Attend Continuing Legal Education seminars MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Juris Doctor (JD) or Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved law school - License to practice law and a member in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona - Note: Applications accepted from candidates who have passed the Arizona state bar examination or are transferring UBE scores and awaiting admission, but they cannot be hired until officially admitted SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Valued qualifications: One year of experience as a practicing attorney, experience practicing criminal law, and experience with adult criminal matters - Working conditions: Indoor office or courtroom environment with exposure to traumatic subject matter (e.g., crime scenes, accidents) - Must meet deadlines with a high volume of work, interruptions, time pressures, and frequently changing tasks while maintaining accuracy and concentration - Must be able to lift, carry, or push up to 35 pounds for 200-300 feet - Requires travel to job-related locations during a scheduled workday using County or private vehicles per County policies - Valid Arizona driver's license is required upon hire - Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation, including drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive positions SELECTION PROCESS 1. Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications 2. Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile 3. Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation, including drug and alcohol testing requirements HOW TO APPLY - Submit an online application through the Maricopa County Workday portal before the application deadline of August 11, 2026 - For reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), contact MHRFeedback@maricopa.gov to initiate the interactive process EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Requisition ID: JR24819 - Location: 175 W Madison St, Phoenix, AZ 85003 (Hybrid) - Posting Date: 07/28/2026 - Application Deadline: 08/11/2026 - Benefits: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) employer, Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRHP) for attorneys, tuition reimbursement, opportunities for growth and development, low-cost high-value healthcare, child care benefits (including access to Maricopa County Kids Club), paid vacation, sick time, parental leave, extensive wellness program with incentives, and enrollment in the Arizona State Retirement System (defined retirement benefit requiring an 11.98% per paycheck contribution rate with a 100% employer match on Day 1)