Cherokee County Job Posting
Second Assistant District Attorney
Rusk, Texas
Position Summary: The Second Assistant District Attorney assists the District Attorney and First Assistant District Attorney in the prosecution of felony criminal cases and the daily legal operations of the District Attorney’s Office. This position is responsible for case review, legal research, trial preparation, courtroom representation, appellate work, and the preparation of legal documents. The Second Assistant District Attorney also provides legal guidance to law enforcement agencies and assists with related matters as assigned. This is an exempt position under the FLSA. Salary begins at $120,000 to $130,000 (base salary and SB22 supplemental funds), depending on experience.
Essential Functions of the Job
- Prosecutes felony criminal cases from screening through final disposition, including plea negotiations, trial, sentencing, and post-conviction matters as assigned.
- Reviews and evaluates criminal cases for filing, grand jury presentation, trial, and appeal.
- Conducts legal research and prepares motions, pleadings, briefs, responses, opinions, and other legal documents necessary for prosecution.
- Prepares and argues appellate briefs in cases appealed from the District Attorney’s Office.
- Represents the State in court proceedings, including hearings, docket calls, plea proceedings, trials, and related matters.
- Assists with trial preparation, including witness preparation, exhibit review, and coordination with law enforcement officers and victims.
- Provides legal advice and guidance to law enforcement agencies regarding investigations, warrants, subpoenas, charging issues, and elements of criminal offenses.
- Handles public information requests, bond forfeitures, asset forfeitures, and other related matters as assigned.
- Maintains case files, legal records, and related documentation in accordance with office policy and applicable law.
- Performs duties in accordance with applicable law, office policy, and the ethical obligations of a Texas prosecutor.
Additional Duties and Responsibilities
- Performs other duties as assigned by the District Attorney.
- Assists the District Attorney and First Assistant District Attorney with office needs and special projects.
- May assist with training or mentoring less experienced staff as requested.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required to Perform the Essential Functions
- Graduation from an accredited law school.
- Member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas.
- Ability to qualify for bonding insurance.
- Knowledge of Texas criminal law, criminal procedure, rules of evidence, and appellate practice.
- Strong understanding of the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct and the ethical obligations of a prosecutor.
- Skill in legal writing, legal research, negotiation, courtroom advocacy, and decision-making.
- Good communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to work well with attorneys, staff, law enforcement agencies, the public, victims, and witnesses.
- Ability to handle sensitive or stressful legal matters with professionalism and sound judgment.
- Computer literate with knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and other standard office technology.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion in official matters.
Work Environment
- Work is primarily performed in an office, courtroom, and courthouse environment.
- Position may involve exposure to stressful, emotionally charged, or disturbing evidence, testimony, and situations.
- May require travel for training, court appearances, meetings, and trial preparation interviews.
Physical Requirements
- May remain in a stationary position for extended periods during the workday.
- Frequently moves throughout the office, courtroom, and courthouse.
- Frequently operates a computer, printer, telephone, and other standard office equipment.
- Occasionally bends, stoops, reaches, or retrieves files, exhibits, or other materials.
- Frequently communicates with others regarding legal matters and must be able to maintain composure in stressful situations.
- Occasionally moves files, documents, or trial materials weighing up to 40 pounds within the office and courthouse.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Submit a resume and application to the Human Resource Director, 135 S. Main, Rusk, TX, 75785, by fax to (903) 683-1186 or email-hr@cocherokee.org. An application may be obtained from the web at www.co.cherokee.tx.us and click on Jobs, or email the Human Resource Director to request.
Cherokee County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify.
This posting may close at any time once a sufficient number of applications have been received.