Chief Public Defender & Office Leader

Lincoln County, SD; Canton (SD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Lincoln County Public Defender Office seeks a chief attorney to lead the office, oversee professional operation, and ensure high-quality representation for indigent clients under South Dakota law. The role requires independent professional judgment and collaboration with County officials.

Responsibilities include supervising attorneys and staff, managing caseloads and resources, and maintaining professional independence while protecting client confidences and public service commitments.

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of criminal law and procedure.
• Strong advocacy, research, writing, negotiation, and leadership skills.
• Ability to supervise and develop attorneys and staff.

Responsibilities

• Serve as chief attorney and administrative head of the Public Defender Office; establish structure, policies, and standards.
• Develop and administer systems for case assignment, workload management, and confidentiality.
• Recruit, supervise, and evaluate attorneys and staff; ensure ethical compliance.
• Represent indigent clients in investigations, motions, trials, and post-judgment proceedings.

Skills

Criminal law

Leadership

Legal research

Oral and written advocacy

Communication

Education

Juris Doctor

Job description

Lincoln County Public Defender Office seeks a chief attorney to lead the office, oversee professional operation, and ensure high-quality representation for indigent clients under South Dakota law. The role requires independent professional judgment and collaboration with County officials.

Responsibilities include supervising attorneys and staff, managing caseloads and resources, and maintaining professional independence while protecting client confidences and public service commitments.