Public Defender Attorney I — Indigent Defense Advocate

Commonwealth of Virginia; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 77,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Virginia’s Fairfax Public Defender's Office seeks an Assistant Public Defender I to advocate for indigent clients in criminal cases across General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts. The attorney will interview clients and witnesses, prepare motions, and argue in court under supervision of the Public Defender.

Requirements include a J.D. and Virginia Bar admission, willingness to try cases, strong writing and oral advocacy, and ability to travel to

Qualifications

• J.D. required for consideration for this full-time role.
• Virginia Bar admission required to practice.
• Experience advocating for indigent populations is preferred.
• Ability to argue legal positions effectively and prepare cases.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client and witness interviews.
• File pretrial and post-trial motions; litigate motions.
• Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
• Communicate with clients, families, and approved parties regularly.

Skills

Advocacy

Trial advocacy

Legal research

Oral & written communication

Time management

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Virginia State Bar admission

Job description

Commonwealth of Virginia’s Fairfax Public Defender's Office seeks an Assistant Public Defender I to advocate for indigent clients in criminal cases across General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts. The attorney will interview clients and witnesses, prepare motions, and argue in court under supervision of the Public Defender.

Requirements include a J.D. and Virginia Bar admission, willingness to try cases, strong writing and oral advocacy, and ability to travel to