Indigent Defense: Non-Capital Trial Counsel

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; Oklahoma; On-site; USD 62,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous state paid benefit allowance

Wide choice of insurance plans

Life/Supplemental Life

Job summary

Oklahoma Indigent Defense System in Cleveland County seeks a full-time Defense Counsel to represent indigent clients in state court at the trial level across felony, misdemeanor, juvenile delinquency, traffic and wildlife cases. The role emphasizes zealous advocacy, competent legal advice, and adherence to agency policies.

Applicants should have a Juris Doctorate and be eligible for admission to the Oklahoma Bar. Travel is required as part of the position.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations for non-capital trials.
• Ability to conduct legal research and draft pleadings and memoranda.
• Strong written and oral communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Performs case management and maintains complete files of pleadings and orders.
• Communicates with clients about case details, plea negotiations, and post-judgment steps.
• Conducts investigations and gathers evidence per standards and laws.
• Prepares for trial, files pretrial motions, and develops defense strategies with client input.
• Resolves legal issues through research and briefing on motions; performs jury selection prep.
• Provides consultation and support to other attorneys; handles administrative duties.

Skills

Legal research

Written communication

Oral communication

Attention to detail

Judgment and decision making

Trial procedures

Education

Juris Doctorate

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Oklahoma Indigent Defense System in Cleveland County seeks a full-time Defense Counsel to represent indigent clients in state court at the trial level across felony, misdemeanor, juvenile delinquency, traffic and wildlife cases. The role emphasizes zealous advocacy, competent legal advice, and adherence to agency policies.

Applicants should have a Juris Doctorate and be eligible for admission to the Oklahoma Bar. Travel is required as part of the position.