Job Announcement - Public Defender Thursday, March 2, 2023
Department: Spirit Lake Tribal Court
Close Date: Until Filled
Position Objective: The Spirit Lake Tribal Court (Tribal Court) is seeking two (2) qualified attorneys to carry out the duties of the Adult Criminal Court Public Defender (Public Defender) for the Tribal Court. In addition to considering applications from individual attorneys, the Tribal Court is interested in and will consider proposals from law firms that would have one or more attorneys available to provide such services.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
Represent individual Tribal members who are defendants in criminal proceedings before the Court and who are indigent and qualify for representation by a Public Defender under standards and criteria developed by the Tribal Court for such assistance.
Advises and represents defendants in all phases of criminal proceedings before the Tribal Court including appeals.
Draft legal documents including memorandums, motions, briefs, and court orders as directed.
Prepare and present testimony and arguments on behalf of clients.
As directed, assist in preparing policies and guidelines to provide proper procedures for carrying out the Public Defender’s duties and responsibilities.
Meet with the Tribal Council or the Spirit Lake Law and Order Committee when necessary and appropriate.
Preserve and uphold the Spirit Lake Tribe Constitution and By-Laws, Law and Order Code, Tribal jurisdiction, ordinances and resolutions and all applicable federal laws.
The responsibilities listed above are representative of the nature and level of work assigned and are not necessarily all-inclusive. All of the duties listed above may not be assigned, nor do the examples cover all duties which may be assigned.