Chief Public Defender – District Leadership & Public Defense

McPhail Sanchez, LLC; Mankato, Northern (MN, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

McPhail Sanchez, LLC seeks the Fifth Judicial District Chief Public Defender to oversee the administration of public defender services across 15 southwestern Minnesota counties, supervising 56 staff including 38 attorneys.

The role includes budgeting, policy coordination with the State Public Defender, and ensuring effective case management. The current term expires December 31, 2029.

Qualifications

• Admission to the Minnesota Bar is required.
• Five years’ experience as a practicing attorney in criminal law with prior administrative experience.

Responsibilities

• Supervise district employees and offices.
• Hire, discipline or terminate staff under supervision.
• Evaluate the work of attorneys and support personnel.
• Respond to inquiries from the public about the District Public Defender Office.
• Resolve client complaints and decide on resolutions.
• Assign cases to balance workload.
• Address court scheduling issues and conflicts.
• Interview, train, mentor and evaluate staff.
• Maintain liaison with court administration, judges and court personnel.
• Coordinate with other Chief District Public Defenders and State Public Defender on policy issues.

Skills

Criminal defense experience

Public speaking

Public administration

Education

Minnesota Bar Admission

5+ years criminal law with admin exp

Job description

McPhail Sanchez, LLC seeks the Fifth Judicial District Chief Public Defender to oversee the administration of public defender services across 15 southwestern Minnesota counties, supervising 56 staff including 38 attorneys.

The role includes budgeting, policy coordination with the State Public Defender, and ensuring effective case management. The current term expires December 31, 2029.