Malcolm Chester

Staff Attorney @Orleans Public Defenders

New Orleans, LA, US

Interview client as assigned to determine the facts of the case. Review police reports and other reports to evaluate each case against the state of the law to determine its relative strengths and weaknesses to prepare for plea negotiations, development of case strategy, and trial preparation.Meet with clients to evaluate options and strategies. Keep clients reasonably informed of the status of their case and promptly respond to reasonable requests for information. Explain to clients matters reasonably necessary to make informed decisions about their cases.Conduct pre-trial negotiations. Conduct bench and jury trials. Prepare and argue trial motions as needed.Investigate, respond and represent the client’s interest in plea bargain negotiations.Coordinate or conduct the case investigation for trial preparation as necessary. Arrange for tests of physical evidence, the testimony of expert witnesses and interview witnesses as required.Conduct all trial actions including cross and direct examination, introduction of evidence and exhibits and make arguments on the law and interpretation of the evidence.Represent client in all legal proceedings including, but not limited to first appearance hearings, preliminary hearings, pre-adjudication motions, guilty pleas and post-conviction matters, such as restitution hearings and revocation hearings, sentence reviews, modifications and terminations. Present defense recommendations for case disposition.Prioritize and plan cases and work activities using resources effectively. Plan for additional resources and integrate changes smoothly and in a timely manner.