Public Defender 2: Family Preservation & Civil Justice

State-of-Iowa; Sioux City (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

IPERS retirement package

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

The State Public Defender’s Office in Iowa seeks a Public Defender 2 for the Project to Preserve Families in Woodbury County to provide compassionate legal advocacy for indigent clients.

You will handle custody disputes, guardianships, protective orders, landlord/tenant issues, and basic criminal matters while learning from seasoned public defenders in a supportive, growth-oriented environment. A strong commitment to public service and client collaboration is essential.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school, and a current license to practice law in Iowa with two years of full-time experience in criminal trial advocacy or prosecution.
• State executive branch experience with eighteen months as Public Defender 1 is also acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Assist families in child custody, guardianship and conservatorships, and Chapter 236 protective orders.
• Address landlord/tenant issues and basic criminal matters including warrants clearance.
• Plan case strategy and trial preparation with clients; maintain communication about case status and questions.

Skills

Client communication

Legal research

Trial preparation

Education

Law degree / Juris Doctor

State bar license

Job description

The State Public Defender’s Office in Iowa seeks a Public Defender 2 for the Project to Preserve Families in Woodbury County to provide compassionate legal advocacy for indigent clients.

You will handle custody disputes, guardianships, protective orders, landlord/tenant issues, and basic criminal matters while learning from seasoned public defenders in a supportive, growth-oriented environment. A strong commitment to public service and client collaboration is essential.