Chief Public Defender, Fifth District – Defense Leader

Minnesota Board of Public Defense; Mankato (MN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Minnesota Board of Public Defense seeks a Chief District Public Defender to lead the Fifth Judicial District. This role oversees administrative staff and attorneys, ensuring compliance with state standards and public defender policies. The district serves 15 counties with multiple offices and handles thousands of cases annually.

Current term expires December 31, 2029. The Chief coordinates with court personnel and State Public Defender, guiding policy and program delivery across the district.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Supervise district employees and offices;
• Hire, discipline or terminate employees under supervision;
• Supervise and evaluate attorneys and support personnel;
• Respond to inquiries from the public concerning the District Public Defender Office;
• Receive and respond to client complaints and resolve issues;
• Assign cases to balance workload and resolve scheduling;
• Interview, train, mentor and evaluate staff;
• Maintain liaison with court administration and judges;
• Coordinate with other Chief District Public Defenders and State Public Defender on policy.

Skills

Staff supervision

Public speaking

Public defense management

Education

Bar admission in Minnesota

Job description

The Minnesota Board of Public Defense seeks a Chief District Public Defender to lead the Fifth Judicial District. This role oversees administrative staff and attorneys, ensuring compliance with state standards and public defender policies. The district serves 15 counties with multiple offices and handles thousands of cases annually.

Current term expires December 31, 2029. The Chief coordinates with court personnel and State Public Defender, guiding policy and program delivery across the district.