Deputy District Attorney IV

• Interpret and apply laws, court decisions and other legal authorities for use in the preparation of complex cases, opinions and briefs.
• Prepare pleadings and other legal documents in connection with trials, hearings and other complex legal proceedings.
• File criminal complaints in various courts.
• Conduct extensive legal research; prepare complex written legal reports, opinions, briefs and appeals.
• Interview and advise complainants and witnesses in regard to prospective criminal complaints including complex, and sensitive and/or difficult cases.
• Present evidence to the grand jury to obtain criminal indictments in cases having widespread public interest.
• Analyze evidence; determine whether or not issuance of a complaint is justified or whether additional evidence is required; advise the general public and law enforcement officers on criminal proceedings; authorize felony and misdemeanor criminal complaints.
• Instruct, assist and advise other deputy district attorneys and technical/clerical support as assigned.
• May assist in the planning and implementation short-term or annual goals, objectives, and strategies for the section to ensure efficient organization and completion of work.
• May assist with monitoring, communicating and developing policies, procedures and standards for the section; recommend and implement improvement when necessary.
• Provide information, advice, feedback, or assistance to others to refine work outputs or resolve problems.
• Ensure that quality standards and compliance with regulations are maintained.
• Act as a liaison for the District Attorney's office.
• Maintain and upgrade professional knowledge, skills, and development by attending seminars and training programs and reading trade and professional journals and publications.
• Attend and/or conduct various internal and external meetings.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of: 

• Principles, procedures and practices regarding the practice of law in the State of California.
• Applicable state, federal and local ordinances, laws, rules and regulations.
• Record keeping, report preparation, filing methods and records management techniques.
• Methods and techniques of research, statistical analysis and report presentation.
• Ethical and professional standards of conduct.
• Computer applications and hardware related to performance of the essential functions of the job.

• Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials.
• Using tact, discretion, initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Organizing work, setting priorities, meeting critical deadlines, and following up on assignments with a minimum of direction.
• Applying logical thinking to solve problems or accomplish tasks; to understand, interpret and communicate complicated policies, procedures and protocols.
• Communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Analyze situations effectively, interpret and apply laws and regulations and recommend effective courses of action.
• Read, analyze and interpret professional periodicals and journals, technical procedures and government regulations.
• Write reports, motions, briefs and/or other legal documents.
• Speak effectively before groups and respond to questions.
• Argue clearly, logically and persuasively in written and oral form.
• Maintain confidentiality and objectivity.
• Understand and accept differences in human behavior, cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of individuals.
• Prepare and present cases in court; negotiate settlements.
• While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is occasionally required to lift, move, push and pull up to 25 pounds.

Important Application Information:

• It is your responsibility to demonstrate through your application materials how you meet the minimum qualifications of the position/s for which you apply. 
• You must complete all sections of the application.  A résumé or other information you feel will help us evaluate your qualifications may be attached to your completed application, but will not be accepted in lieu of completing any part of the application.  Blank applications that contain only a résumé or those that reference “see résumé” will be rejected as incomplete.
• Check your application before submitting to ensure it is complete and correct; no new or additional information will be accepted after the closing date.
• Inquiry will be made of your former and current employers; please provide the names and telephone numbers of supervisors on your application. 
• You must provide the names and contact information of at least three (3) references (not relatives) that have knowledge of your job skills, experience, ability and/or character. 
• Application materials are the property of Mendocino County and will not be returned.
• It is your responsibility to keep your NEOGOV profile updated, including any changes to your telephone number or address. Failure to do so may result in missed notification of exams or interviews.
• The exam process listed on this flyer is tentative. Mendocino County reserves the right to make necessary modifications to the examination plan. Such revisions will be in accordance with approved personnel standards. Should a change be made, applicants will be notified.
• The provisions of this job bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract.

Examination Process: All complete applications will be reviewed with those judged most qualified progressing further in the selection process. Based on the number of qualified candidates, an oral examination (weight 100) or an unassembled exam, consisting of an evaluation of education and experience as stated on the application form, will be administered. The examination process will test the knowledge and abilities described above. A minimum score of 70 must be attained for placement on the employment list. 

Special Testing: If you require special testing arrangements to accommodate a disability or religious conviction you must contact Human Resources at 707.234.6600 prior to the test date to make your requirements known.  You must provide enough advance notice to allow Human Resources to properly review and evaluate your request.

Special Requirements: Employment in some County departments or positions may require the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background, which may include fingerprinting, and/or a medical examination, which may include drug screening.

This announcement is a synopsis of duties and requirements of this job. To review the complete classification specification and benefits, please see the HR website. Applications must be submitted to the Human Resources Department by the final filing date.   

The County of Mendocino is an Equal Opportunity Employer