Assistant Public Defender I/II - Trial Attorney in Richmond

Commonwealth of Virginia; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 78,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Job summary

The Commonwealth of Virginia's Indigent Defense Commission seeks an Attorney for the Assistant Public Defender I/II role in Richmond. The attorney will represent indigent clients in criminal cases across courts, in a mission-driven setting with at-will employment and a local salary supplement.

Minimum qualifications include a J.D. and Virginia Bar admission; two years of public defense for the II level; strong trial skills; excellent written and verbal communication; ability to travel to courts

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission required for consideration for this full-time, salaried position.
• A demonstrated interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
• Enthusiasm for trial work and desire to improve as a trial attorney.
• Ability to argue persuasively and learn quickly from feedback.
• Strong written and oral communication; ability to multitask and stay organized.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to all courts and regional jails.
• Knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client and witness interviews, and work with staff investigators to build cases.
• File pretrial motions and post-trial motions, litigate motions, and handle appeals.
• Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts, including jury trials.
• Visit incarcerated clients and communicate with clients, families, and approved parties.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree

Virginia State Bar admission

Job description

The Commonwealth of Virginia's Indigent Defense Commission seeks an Attorney for the Assistant Public Defender I/II role in Richmond. The attorney will represent indigent clients in criminal cases across courts, in a mission-driven setting with at-will employment and a local salary supplement.

Minimum qualifications include a J.D. and Virginia Bar admission; two years of public defense for the II level; strong trial skills; excellent written and verbal communication; ability to travel to courts