Impactful Public Defender - Trial Attorney (Oregon)

State of Oregon; Salem (OR); On-site; USD 101,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Basic life insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Hybrid and flexible work opportunities

Job summary

Oregon Public Defense Commission seeks Deputy Defenders for the Northwest Regional Trial Division (Portland), Central Services Trial Division (Salem), and Southwest Trial Division (Medford). These are permanent, full-time roles representing indigent clients in circuit courts across Oregon.

Officers collaborate with divisions, meet Oregon Bar requirements, and demonstrate commitment to equity in public service. Hybrid work may be available where operationally appropriate.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school and admission to the Oregon State Bar or eligibility via reciprocity or approved program.
• Meeting the Attorney Qualification Standards for Criminal Attorney 1–5 and possessing a valid Oregon Driver's license.
• Out-of-state applicants should confirm attorney qualifications via email with the Hiring Manager.

Responsibilities

• Represent indigent clients from arraignment through post-trial motions in circuit courts.
• Provide court-appointed legal representation and advocacy in criminal matters.
• Handle case types including probation violations, misdemeanors, felonies, and related proceedings.

Skills

Communication

Prioritization

Organization

Working Under Pressure

Legal Software

Public Defense

Education

Graduation from an accredited law school

Job description

Oregon Public Defense Commission seeks Deputy Defenders for the Northwest Regional Trial Division (Portland), Central Services Trial Division (Salem), and Southwest Trial Division (Medford). These are permanent, full-time roles representing indigent clients in circuit courts across Oregon.

Officers collaborate with divisions, meet Oregon Bar requirements, and demonstrate commitment to equity in public service. Hybrid work may be available where operationally appropriate.