Assistant Public Defender I/II — Champion for Justice

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Virginia; On-site; USD 78,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Indigent Defense Commission is seeking to fill Assistant Public Defender I/II positions across the Tidewater Virginia region, with openings in Chesapeake, Hampton, and Newport News. Attorneys will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles in various stages of litigation, reporting to the Chief Public Defender and serving indigent clients with zealous, high-quality advocacy.

The role requires a J.D. and Virginia Bar admission, a commitment to social justice, and the ability to work

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree and Virginia State Bar admission required for consideration.
• Active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
• Willingness to try cases and to improve as a trial attorney.
• Ability to learn and internalize feedback and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to travel to all courts and regional jails.
• Knowledge of criminal law and evidence.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client and witness interviews and assist with case investigations.
• File pretrial and post-trial motions and litigate motions.
• Try cases in General District, Juvenile & Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
• Maintain timely client communication with clients and families.
• Draft, edit and review motions and briefs and present sound legal arguments in court.

Skills

Oral communication

Written communication

Multi-tasking

Deadline management

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Virginia Bar admission

Job description

Indigent Defense Commission is seeking to fill Assistant Public Defender I/II positions across the Tidewater Virginia region, with openings in Chesapeake, Hampton, and Newport News. Attorneys will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles in various stages of litigation, reporting to the Chief Public Defender and serving indigent clients with zealous, high-quality advocacy.

The role requires a J.D. and Virginia Bar admission, a commitment to social justice, and the ability to work