Chief Public Defender & Indigent Defense Leader

Lincoln County, SD; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lincoln County Public Defender Office seeks a chief attorney to lead the office, oversee operations, and provide high-quality indigent defense in accordance with South Dakota law.

Responsibilities include setting strategic direction, supervising attorneys and staff, managing caseloads and resources, and working with County officials to ensure effective representation while maintaining professional independence.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Active bar admission in good standing in South Dakota.
• Significant criminal-law and litigation experience to counsel individuals charged with crimes.

Responsibilities

• Serve as chief attorney and administrative head of the Public Defender Office; establish structure and strategic direction.
• Develop and administer systems for case assignment, workload management, and confidentiality.
• Supervise attorneys and staff, recruit personnel, and ensure effective client representation.
• Manage the office budget and resources; collaborate with County officials and courts.
• Maintain independence and adhere to professional conduct and ethics.

Skills

Criminal-law expertise

Litigation experience

Leadership and management

Oral and written advocacy

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Job description

The Lincoln County Public Defender Office seeks a chief attorney to lead the office, oversee operations, and provide high-quality indigent defense in accordance with South Dakota law.

Responsibilities include setting strategic direction, supervising attorneys and staff, managing caseloads and resources, and working with County officials to ensure effective representation while maintaining professional independence.