Deputy District Attorney I/II/III/IV

Salary: $141,358.10 - $202,072.00 Annually
Location : Oroville/Chico Area, CA
Job Type: Regular Help
Job Number:
Department: District Attorney's Office
Opening Date: 06/10/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

Summary
This classification is scheduled to receive a 5% COLA effective July 2027.
Deputy DA I: $141,356.80

Deputy DA II: $148,428.80

Deputy DA III: $141,793.60 - $172,328.00

Deputy DA IV: $166,254.40 - $202,072.00

This recruitment is for all levels.

***Applicants that have taken the Bar Exam recently and are awaiting their results are encouraged to apply.
FLSA: Exempt

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, direction, and general direction, performs professional legal duties in support of the District Attorney's Office and the prosecution of criminal activities; represents the District Attorney in the management of legal issues and all aspects of felony and civil prosecution in Butte County; litigates assigned cases in courts of law; performs legal research; plans and coordinates investigations for the prosecution of legal cases; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Deputy District Attorney I and II), direction (Deputy District Attorney III) and general direction (Deputy District Attorney IV) from the District Attorney. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is a multi-level professional classification series in which incumbents may be assigned to any of four (4) levels, depending upon experience, proficiency gained, and the complexity and sensitivity of assigned cases. The work may be related to prosecuting cases in a number of legal specialty areas of criminal and civil law. Positions in these classes are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the lower-level classification.

Deputy District Attorney I: This is the entry level class in the Deputy District Attorney flexible classification series. Incumbents with professional-level experience learn and perform the less difficult and less complex misdemeanor case management and prosecution within the District Attorney's Office, such as misdemeanor, domestic violence, theft, elder abuse, DUI and controlled substance cases. The work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Incumbents normally advance to the level of Deputy District Attorney II after gaining experience, achieving proficiency, and demonstrating ability to perform tasks that meet the requirements for Deputy District Attorney II.

Deputy District Attorney II: This is the second working level class in the Deputy District Attorney series performing professional legal work for a broader range of increasingly complex misdemeanor cases and moderately complex felony criminal cases within the District Attorney's Office. Incumbents regularly work on cases that are varied, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.

Deputy District Attorney III: This is the third working, and full journey-level, classification in the Deputy District Attorney series responsible for performing the full range of professional legal work within the District Attorney' Office. Positions in this classification rely on experience and judgment to ensure the efficient and effective prosecution of assigned cases. The work involves problem-solving of unique issues or increasingly complex problems without precedent and/or structure. Assignments are given with general guidelines, and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver legal services. Work may be reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.

Deputy District Attorney IV: This is the principal prosecutor within the Deputy District Attorney series responsible for full vertical management of assigned criminal and civil cases. It is the fourth working, and highest (non-lead or supervisor) advanced-level, classification in the Deputy District Attorney series and is responsible for performing the most complex and difficult professional legal work within the District Attorney's Office. Positions in this classification have extensive experience and judgment to ensure the efficient and effective solo prosecution of the most complex and highest-level felony cases, including murder, gang or special victim cases. The work involves problem-solving of unique issues or increasingly complex problems without precedent and/or structure. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver legal services.

Positions in the Deputy District Attorney class series are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancing from the lower-level classification at the discretion of the Department Head. Progression to each higher classification level is subject to all of the following (i) management affirmation that the incumbent is performing the full range of duties assigned (ii) management approval for progression to the next higher level in the series; (iii) satisfactory work and office performance at the current classification level; and (iv) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the next classification including any licenses and certifications.

Essential Job Functions
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Typical functions may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, abilities, and other characteristics. The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks. Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level) positions.

• Represents the District Attorney in prosecuting persons charged with criminal offenses; assures cases are resolved within office policy guidelines.
• Drafts complaints, briefs, motions, and other legal documents; prepares memoranda of law, briefs and other filings and legal documents as required.
• Performs the full range of routine to complex legal activities, involving the investigation and prosecution of routine to complex criminal or civil cases; prepares and presents cases in court.
• Evaluates incoming law enforcement reports involving juvenile and adult offenders; review reports and files cases and handles all aspects of prosecution from arraignment to sentencing and through appeal.
• Reviews, analyzes, and researches allegations; makes determination on the appropriate charge following receipt of the agency reports; files criminal charges; keeps victims and witnesses informed of the status of legal proceedings.
• Interviews witnesses and victims; reviews and analyzes evidence, police reports, and other materials related to pending cases.
• Provides direction to law enforcement and investigative personnel related to investigation of criminal offenses; provides advice as to applicable laws, court decisions, and legal authorities.
• Reviews, analyzes and approves requests from law enforcement for search and arrest warrants.
• Negotiates with defense counsel at pre-trial hearings regarding case disposition or modification.
• Prepares and appears in court for trials, hearing, and pleadings.
• Makes recommendations regarding sentencing and presents that position at sentencing and revocation hearings.
• Researches law and precedents to obtain information needed to prosecute pending cases.
• Performs appellate research and drafts appellate briefs, pleadings, bail recommendations, motions, and other legal documents; appears in the designated court of appeal.
• Manages court calendars to ensure that cases are resolved quickly; prepares for weekly settlement conferences; conducts discussions with court staff and defense attorneys to facilitate case settlement.
• Performs trial work, including jury selection, examination and cross-examination, and argument of the prosecution case.
• Maintains accurate records and files, and compiles reports of work performed.
• Participates in various task forces with surrounding counties.
• Monitors legal developments, including proposed legislation and court decisions; evaluates their impact on the prosecution of civil and criminal cases and recommends appropriate action.
• Communicates with victims and witness to advise on the status of the case; obtain information and schedule meetings or court appearances.
• Serves as a lead attorney on projects, task forces, including law enforcement training and liaison tasks, as assigned.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge of:

• Civil and criminal law and procedures particularly as related to areas of legal specialty.
• Practices and effective techniques in presentation of court cases.
• Judicial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Responsibilities and obligations of public officials and administrative agencies.
• Applicable state and federal laws, criminal law, constitutional law, and provisions affecting the prosecution of alleged criminals.
• Organization and procedures of the District Attorney's Office.
• Pleadings and appellate court procedures.
• Principles, methods, and techniques of legal research, legal writing, and investigation.
• Principles and protocols for the evidentiary gathering of information, documents, financial records and other data that may be used in court.
• Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
• Techniques for effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability To:

• Prosecute of criminal and civil cases.
• Define issues, perform legal research, analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives, and make appropriate recommendations; conduct effective negotiations.
• Assess and apply criminal laws to information, evidence and other data compiled.
• Interview and prepare witnesses for testimony.
• Interpret and explain legal principles and relate them to both trained legal professionals and the public.
• Handle difficult situations and respond quickly to changing situations.
• Prepare clear, concise, and legally sufficient resolutions, ordinances, contracts, leases, permits, reports, correspondence, and other written material.
• Present statements of fact, law, and argument clearly and logically, often times in front of large groups.
• Understand, apply and interpret state and federal laws and constitutional provisions affecting public defense activities.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate ideas and legal issues clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Level I: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctorate.

Level II: In addition to the above, one (1) year of legal experience as an attorney engaged in the practice of law in the State of California, preferably in the area of criminal prosecution, and demonstrated increased ability to prosecute complex misdemeanor cases is required for advancement to the level of Deputy District Attorney II.

Level III: In addition to the requirements of Level I and II, two (2) years of legal experience as an attorney engaged in the practice of law in the State of California, preferably in the area of criminal prosecution, and demonstrated increased ability to prosecute complex misdemeanor cases is required for advancement to the level of Deputy District Attorney III.

Level IV: In addition to the requirements of Levels I-III, an additional one (1) year (a total of three (3) years) of legal experience as an attorney engaged in the practice of law in the State of California, preferably in the area of criminal prosecution, and demonstrated increased ability to prosecute the most complex and/or high penalty cases with minimal supervision is required for advancement to the level of Deputy District Attorney IV.

Certifications and Licenses:

• Possession of an active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California.
• Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license following hire date per California DMV regulations.

Environmental Factors and Conditions/Physical Requirements
PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required; occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and clos