Chief District Public Defender — Leadership & Strategy

COPAA; Mankato (MN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Fifth Judicial District Public Defender's Office in Minnesota seeks a Chief District Public Defender to oversee administration for 15 counties and a staff of 56 attorneys. This role leads case distribution, policy adherence, and budget management while ensuring high quality public defense services.

The position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with court personnel and the State Public Defender.

Qualifications

• Admission to the Bar of Minnesota.
• Five years' experience as a practicing attorney in criminal law.
• Prior administrative experience.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and administer district employees and offices.
• Hire, discipline or terminate employees under supervision.
• Supervise and evaluate lawyers and support staff.
• Respond to public inquiries about the district's activities.
• Respond to client complaints and resolve them.
• Assign cases to insure even workload distribution.
• Resolve court scheduling issues and conflict assignments.
• Interview, train, mentor and evaluate staff.
• Maintain liaison with court administration and judges.
• Undertake related duties as required by policy.
• Coordinate with other Chief District Public Defenders and State Public Defender on policy issues.

Skills

Indigent defense

Public speaking

Media relations

Governmental agency management

Job description

The Fifth Judicial District Public Defender's Office in Minnesota seeks a Chief District Public Defender to oversee administration for 15 counties and a staff of 56 attorneys. This role leads case distribution, policy adherence, and budget management while ensuring high quality public defense services.

The position requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with court personnel and the State Public Defender.