Assistant Public Defender

Tuscaloosa County Office of Public Defender; Tuscaloosa (AL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

The Tuscaloosa County Office of Public Defender in Tuscaloosa, AL is seeking a dedicated Assistant Public Defender to represent clients in criminal proceedings, including arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencings. The role emphasizes client counseling, legal research, and ethical advocacy.

The ideal candidate will hold a JD from an accredited law school and be admitted or eligible for the Alabama State Bar, with a commitment to public service and serving underserved communities.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school and admission to the Alabama State Bar.
• Experience or strong interest in Criminal Defense, including case preparation, plea negotiations, and trial advocacy.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills, including clear communication with clients, colleagues, and the court.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in criminal proceedings, including arraignments, hearings, trials and sentencings.
• Meet with clients, conduct legal research, review evidence, develop case strategies, and draft motions and other legal documents.
• Negotiate with prosecutors, appear in court, advise clients on their rights and options, and collaborate with investigators and support staff.

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Job description

Company Description

The Tuscaloosa County Office of Public Defender provides legal representation to individuals who cannot afford an attorney in criminal matters. The office is committed to protecting constitutional rights, ensuring fair treatment, and promoting equal access to justice. Team members work closely with courts, community partners, and support staff to deliver high-quality, client-centered defense services. The work environment emphasizes professionalism, ethical practice, and ongoing development of legal advocacy skills.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site Assistant Public Defender role located in Tuscaloosa, AL. The Assistant Public Defender will represent clients in criminal proceedings, including arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencings. Daily tasks include meeting with clients, conducting legal research, reviewing evidence, developing case strategies, and drafting motions and other legal documents. The role involves negotiating with prosecutors, appearing in court, advising clients on their rights and options, and collaborating with investigators, social workers, and support staff. The Assistant Public Defender is expected to manage a caseload efficiently, maintain accurate case records, and uphold the highest ethical and professional standards.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of Law and Criminal Law, including constitutional principles and procedures relevant to criminal defense.
• Experience or strong interest in Criminal Defense, including case preparation, plea negotiations, and trial advocacy.
• Familiarity with Courts and courtroom practice, including rules of evidence, criminal procedure, and local court rules.
• Ability to provide effective Legal Assistance, including client counseling, legal research, and drafting motions and briefs.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and current or eligible admission to the Alabama State Bar.
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills, including clear communication with clients, colleagues, and the court.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines under pressure.
• Commitment to public service, client-centered representation, and working with diverse and underserved communities.
• Professional integrity, sound judgment, and ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.