Emerging Public Defender — Courtroom Advocate

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 77,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Local salary supplement

Job summary

Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) seeks an Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I in Fairfax to defend indigent clients. You will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles, working under the Fairfax Public Defender's Office, reporting to the Public Defender, and benefiting from a local salary supplement.

The role requires courtroom advocacy, independence, and collaboration with a diverse team. A JD and Virginia Bar admission are mandatory.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission are required for consideration for this full-time position.
• Experience as an advocate for indigent populations.
• Willingness to try cases and improve as a trial attorney.
• Ability to argue legal positions effectively and prepare cases thoroughly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client and witness interviews and collaborate with staff investigators.
• File pretrial and post-trial motions and litigate motions.
• Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
• Communicate regularly with clients, families, and approved parties, including jail visits.

Skills

Advocacy for indigent populations

Trial advocacy

Communication skills

Courtroom appearance

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Virginia State Bar admission

Job description

Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) seeks an Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I in Fairfax to defend indigent clients. You will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles, working under the Fairfax Public Defender's Office, reporting to the Public Defender, and benefiting from a local salary supplement.

The role requires courtroom advocacy, independence, and collaboration with a diverse team. A JD and Virginia Bar admission are mandatory.