Chief Public Defender & Lead Justice Advocate

Acrnet; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Spokane Public Defender’s Office seeks an experienced supervisor to provide oversight of departmental administration and ensure strong, ethical representation of indigent clients in the Spokane Municipal Court.

The role leads staff, manages caseload tracking, oversees budget and grants, and coordinates with city officials, judges, and agencies to advance fairness and integrity in the local criminal justice system.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree and admission to the Washington State Bar in good standing.
• At least 8 years in the practice of law, with 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Criminal defense experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight for all employment-related matters within the department.
• Prepare and administer departmental budget.
• Prepare and administer departmental grant applications and requirements.
• Maintain the integrity of representation of indigent clients in the courts.
• Represent indigent clients’ and defenders’ interests on various law and law-related boards and committees.
• Handle inquiries from City Administration, City Council, judges, agencies, and the media.
• Assigns, tracks, and reviews caseloads of staff with attention to compliance with state standards.
• Perform related duties as required.

Skills

Legal leadership

Staff supervision

Policy development

Courtroom advocacy

Legal research

Education

Juris Doctor

WA Bar admission

Job description

The City of Spokane Public Defender’s Office seeks an experienced supervisor to provide oversight of departmental administration and ensure strong, ethical representation of indigent clients in the Spokane Municipal Court.

The role leads staff, manages caseload tracking, oversees budget and grants, and coordinates with city officials, judges, and agencies to advance fairness and integrity in the local criminal justice system.