Heather Smith

My job duties primarily involve preparing draft decisions regarding disability benefits applications based on the decisions of our Administrative Law Judges. This includes analyzing the record, evaluating the relevant facts, determining issue of law, composing cogent and legally defensible work product and providing ALJ advisement on complex factual or legal issues. At times I also perform in depth pre hearing case reviews, including analyzing and summarizing the available medical and non medical evidence and identifying any issues or fact of law to be addressed prior to the hearing.

• Conducted thorough investigations, interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence to build solid cases against juvenile defendants.
• Successfully prosecuted complex criminal cases (such as transfer to adult status petitions), securing justice for victims and their families.
• Prepared detailed legal briefs and memoranda, providing comprehensive analysis of relevant case law in support of prosecution arguments.
• Handled sensitive cases involving domestic violence or sexual assault with empathy and professionalism.
• Prepared and filed pleadings, motions and other legal documents in court proceedings.
• Reviewed police reports daily, making timely charging decisions based on available evidence and legal requirements.
• Represented victims in court hearings and in negotiations with other parties.

• Conducted in depth research on relevant legal precedents, statutes, and to inform the judge's decision making process.
• Writing bench memos, draft opinions, orders, and other legal documents summarizing key legal issues and providing analysis for the judge to review.
• Helped the judge make informed decisions on legal matters before the court.