Public Defender Attorney – Assistant I/II (Roanoke)

Indigent Defense Commission; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 78,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PSLF eligibility

State benefits package

Job summary

Indigent Defense Commission in Roanoke seeks an Assistant Public Defender I/II to advocate for indigent clients in criminal cases across multiple courts. The attorney will interview clients, file motions, and argue in court with independence and collaboration.

The role offers a path from Law Clerk to Assistant Public Defender I after licensure, with PSLF eligibility and state benefits as part of the package. Candidates should be committed to social justice and courtroom advocacy.

Qualifications

• J.D. and Virginia State Bar admission required for consideration for this full-time position.
• Willingness to try cases and pursue improvement as a trial attorney.
• Active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
• Ability to learn quickly and internalize feedback.
• Ability to meet deadlines and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client and witness interviews and work with investigators to build cases.
• File pretrial and post-trial motions and litigate motions.
• Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
• Visit clients in jail and maintain regular communication with clients, families, and approved parties.

Skills

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Bar admission Virginia

Trial advocacy

Criminal defense

Courtroom experience

Written and oral communication

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Job description

Indigent Defense Commission in Roanoke seeks an Assistant Public Defender I/II to advocate for indigent clients in criminal cases across multiple courts. The attorney will interview clients, file motions, and argue in court with independence and collaboration.

The role offers a path from Law Clerk to Assistant Public Defender I after licensure, with PSLF eligibility and state benefits as part of the package. Candidates should be committed to social justice and courtroom advocacy.