Assistant State Public Defender Attorney - Milwaukee Region

State of Wisconsin; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 78,686 - 120,785; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Generous paid time off

Top-rated pension plan

Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Job summary

The State of Wisconsin is looking for five full-time Assistant State Public Defenders to work in the Milwaukee Trial Office. Candidates should have experience in criminal litigation and be licensed to practice law in Wisconsin before the start date.

Key responsibilities include representing clients in various court matters, such as criminal cases, while maintaining professional standards. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $37.83 to $58.07 per hour, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in Wisconsin by the start date.
• Experience with criminal litigation.
• Skilled in working with legal documents.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients at the circuit court level.
• Handle cases including criminal and civil matters.
• Meet hard deadlines for caseloads.

Skills

Providing legal representation

Preparing and working with legal documents

Time-management skills

Professional interaction with diverse groups

Education

Licensed to practice law in Wisconsin

Job description

Introduction

Are you seeking a rewarding and challenging career? Bring your litigation skills to the Wisconsin State Public Defenders office (SPD) and make a difference in the lives of Wisconsin residents. The SPD is seeking dedicated litigators for five full‑time Assistant State Public Defender positions in our Milwaukee Region.

What We Offer

SPD employees receive a comprehensive benefits and compensation package that includes health plans, generous paid time off (3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays, ample sick leave), a top‑rated pension plan, and eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Why Work With Us

SPD fosters an inclusive, human‑centered, and family‑friendly culture. Professional development is encouraged, and a wide variety of training opportunities are available. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourage everyone to bring their whole self to work.

Who We Are

SPD provides legal representation for persons accused of crimes or for defendants in specified civil matters and who meet statutory financial eligibility criteria. We zealously represent clients, protect constitutional rights, and advocate for an effective and fair criminal justice system.

Where We’re Located

Current openings are in the Milwaukee Trial Office, located at 819 N 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53203.

Position Summary

The SPD Trial Division represents clients at the circuit court (trial court) level. Cases include criminal, civil commitment, protective placement, revocation of conditional liberty, sexually violent offender commitment, termination of parental rights, and other matters as specified by state law for juveniles and adults.

Salary Information

The starting salary ranges from $37.83 to $58.07 per hour ($78,686.40 to $120,785.60 annually) depending on qualifications, plus benefits. Positions are unclassified and in pay schedule/range 21‑75.

Job Details

• Background check will be conducted prior to an offer of employment.
• Verification of identity and eligibility to work in the United States is required; the SPD does not sponsor work visas.
• Applicants must be admitted to practice law by the Wisconsin Supreme Court prior to the start date.
• Equal opportunity employer: all applicants are considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
• Veteran program available for qualified veterans with a 30% or greater service‑connected disability.

Qualifications

Applicants must submit both a Letter of Qualification and a resume. A minimally qualified candidate must be licensed to practice law in Wisconsin prior to the start date and should have education and/or training in the following:

• Providing legal representation (e.g., litigation, hearings, negotiation)
• Preparing and working with legal documents (pleadings, motions, briefs)
• Time‑management skills and the ability to meet hard deadlines for caseloads
• Professional interaction with diverse groups (office staff, clients, opposing counsel, courts)

Well‑qualified applicants should also have experience in the following:

• Representing criminal cases (litigation, hearings, negotiation)
• Preparing and reviewing legal documents (pleadings, motions, briefs)
• Reviewing discovery
• At least 3 years of criminal litigation experience

How To Apply

Submit an application through the Wisc.Jobs portal. Attach a resume and a cover letter that clearly illustrate how your qualifications relate to these requirements. Both documents are essential; applications missing either will not be considered. Do not submit materials by email, fax, or hard copy.

Deadline to Apply

Applications remain open until positions are filled. For questions, contact Maggie Wild at [e-mail].