Lead Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender III)

National Legal Aid & Defender Association; Hutchinson (KS); On-site; USD 72,500 - 101,705; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage (SEHP)

Sick & vacation leave

Work‑Life Balance programs

Paid state holidays

Retirement and deferred compensation

Job summary

The Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services is accepting applications for Lead Assistant Public Defender (PD III) in Hutchinson, Kansas.

The role represents adults charged with felonies who cannot hire an attorney, providing advanced litigation, leadership, and mentorship within the public defender office.

Qualification requires active Kansas attorney licensure and strong experience in complex motions, with a commitment to client-centered advocacy.

Qualifications

• Must be licensed to practice law in Kansas and in good standing.
• Extensive litigation and motions experience.
• Ability to lead and mentor staff.
• Commitment to public defense and client-centered outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead Assistant Public Defenders possess advanced litigation skills and handle complex motions.
• Capable of mentoring staff and supporting office management and development.

Skills

Litigation

Motions practice

Leadership

Mentorship

Team collaboration

Education

Licensed attorney in Kansas

Job description

Lead Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender III)

Location: Hutchinson, KS

The Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services (BIDS), through its Reno County Public Defender Office, is accepting applications for the position of Lead Assistant Public Defender (PD III) in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Mission

Represent adults charged with felonies who cannot hire an attorney, supporting and elevating public defense in Kansas, and providing relentless representation and collaborative, holistic advocacy in service of client‑centered outcomes.

Responsibilities

Lead Assistant Public Defenders possess a fully advanced litigation skill set, and are proficient at comprehensive motions practice. Attorneys at this level are capable of litigating all severity level cases and regularly are involved in complex statutory, procedural, and constitutional issues within their office.

Lead Assistant Public Defenders exhibit an outstanding dedication to the Public Defender system and its clients.

Lead Assistant Public Defenders are capable of assuming informal leadership roles within their office in any areas of practice, including acting as a support for their office management team, and/or assisting with the professional development of less experienced attorneys and staff.

When called upon by their Chief Public Defender, Lead Assistant Public Defenders must assume additional responsibilities in assisting with the development, guidance of others, and/or filling agency‑wide, Administrative Office‑defined needs, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, inspiring others, and taking active steps to create a positive, safe, and supportive office culture.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation for this position (Public Defender III) ranges from $72,500.00 to $101,705.00. Salary may vary depending upon experience or qualifications.

The State Of Kansas Employment Benefits Package Includes

• First day of employment comprehensive coverage under the State Employee Health Plan (SEHP) for medical, prescription drug coverage, dental, and vision. Tax advantage accounts are available and include options such as a Health Savings Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Additional voluntary benefits including Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness Insurance.
• SEHP members and their covered family members have access to the HealthQuest Health Center at 9th and Kansas Avenue in Topeka for in‑person and virtual health care services.
• Sick & Vacation leave.
• Work‑Life Balance programs: paid parental leave, military leave, jury leave, and funeral leave.
• Paid State Holidays.
• Fitness Centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program: https://oitsapps.ks.gov/da/ops/star/.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Please be aware that if an offer of employment is made, actual employment is subject to two pre‑employment conditions which include:

• Confirmation of licensure as an active attorney in good standing in the State of Kansas, or successful admission to the Kansas Bar, prior to start date.
• Governor’s salary approval.