Salt Lake County - Prosecuting Attorney
JOB SUMMARY
Performs prosecution legal work for the Justice Division of the District Attorney's Office at the highest skill level. Works independently and applies professional judgment and skill in the preparation and presentation of cases. Monitors the legal work of District Attorney staff. Demonstrates broad knowledge of criminal law. Work is performed in accordance with policies and is reviewed by the District Attorney, Chief Deputy District Attorney, and/or their designee.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from a recognized college of law with a Juris Doctor (JD).
Member in good standing with the Utah State Bar Association or other state bar association with the ability to become a member of the Utah State Bar Association on the first day work.
Due to the nature of this position, the successful applicant must successfully pass an initial criminal background check as well as every two years thereafter and continuously meet the requirements of the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI).
Grade 17
Entry positions require between zero (0) and eight (8) years of full-time paid employment in the practice of law.
Grade 18
A minimum of eight (8) years of full-time paid employment in the practice of law. Employment as a full-time paid judicial clerk in a court of record or appellate court may be credited as full-time legal employment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Reviews investigative reports and screens requests for prosecutions to determine validity of facts.
Meets with law enforcement officers, complainants, victims, and witnesses as may be required for screening decisions.
Prepares or directs the preparation of screening worksheets, fact sheets, "information's," declinations, arrest warrants, or summons.
Prepares or directs the preparation of search warrants and investigative subpoenas using knowledge and understanding of the law of search and seizure.
Reviews case files in preparation for trials and hearings and meets with law enforcement officers, citizens, and expert witnesses to determine evidence of cases prosecuted.
Reviews cases regarding possible plea negotiations, assesses the strengths and weaknesses of cases, and negotiates plea agreements within the guidelines and office policies and procedures.
Prepares cases prior to court appearances, research laws pertaining to case facts, and prepares witnesses for court appearances.
Appears in appropriate courts conducting trials or hearings, presenting evidence and/or arguments as an advocate for the County and/or the State.
Maintains current knowledge and skill in all phases of trial including knowledge of rules of procedure and evidence.
Prepares judgments, orders, findings of fact, and conclusions of law as directed by the court.
Reviews for appeal and prepares appeals where necessary to protect the interests of the County and/or the State.
Participates in office training programs and other legal professional development programs for continuing legal education as required by the Utah State Bar Association directives and the Salt Lake District Attorney's Office.
Provides educational services and trainings to law enforcement agencies and the public within the guidelines of the Code of Professional Conduct and the policies and procedures of the Salt Lake District Attorney's Office.