Chief Public Defender, Fifth District – Public Defense Leader

Dcbar; Mankato (MN); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Fifth Judicial District Chief Public Defender in Minnesota oversees the administration of public defender services for the district, with a staff of 56 including 38 attorneys and offices in Mankato. The term runs four years, currently through December 31, 2029.

The role includes supervising employees, hiring and discipline, evaluating staff, responding to public inquiries, resolving client complaints, assigning cases, and coordinating policy with the State Public Defender and court personnel.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Supervise district employees and offices.
• Hire, discipline or terminate supervised staff.
• Evaluate attorneys and support personnel.
• Respond to inquiries from the public about the District Public Defender Office.
• Resolve client complaints and assign cases to balance workload.
• Coordinate with court administration and judges on policy issues.

Skills

Legal knowledge

Public speaking

Management

Education

Bar admission MN

Criminal law experience 5+ years

Job description

The Fifth Judicial District Chief Public Defender in Minnesota oversees the administration of public defender services for the district, with a staff of 56 including 38 attorneys and offices in Mankato. The term runs four years, currently through December 31, 2029.

The role includes supervising employees, hiring and discipline, evaluating staff, responding to public inquiries, resolving client complaints, assigning cases, and coordinating policy with the State Public Defender and court personnel.