Public Defender Attorney - Make a Real Impact

maricopa; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 82,000 - 172,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRP

Tuition reimbursement

Work-life balance

On-site wellness programs

Job summary

Office of the Public Defender in Maricopa County seeks attorneys to join tiers I–III, representing clients appointed by the court and advocating for their interests. This is a high-volume setting with diverse criminal matters and opportunities for courtroom advocacy, research, and collaboration with a professional team.

Compensation is tiered, with ranges from $82,250 to $171,750 annually. Education and experience determine tier placement.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor or Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an ABA-approved law school.
• Must be admitted to practice law and be in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona at the time of application; applications from candidates awaiting admission are accepted but cannot be hired until admitted.
• Experience in criminal law is valued.

Responsibilities

• Appear in court, represent clients at scheduled hearings and trials, and present oral arguments in support of clients' legal interests.
• Research facts and analyze legal issues using computerized and printed research tools.
• Compose motions, briefs, correspondence, and other legal documents.
• Prepare cases for trial by interviewing witnesses, visiting crime scenes and reviewing evidence.
• Discuss and present analysis of legal issues to clients and the criminal justice community.
• Communicate in person and by phone with clients, opposing counsel, co-workers, and supervisors.
• Travel to courts, jails, detention centers, and correctional facilities to effectively represent clients.
• Work with a team of professionals including other attorneys, mitigation specialists, investigators, and paralegals.

Education

Juris Doctor or Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an ABA approved law school

Job description

Office of the Public Defender in Maricopa County seeks attorneys to join tiers I–III, representing clients appointed by the court and advocating for their interests. This is a high-volume setting with diverse criminal matters and opportunities for courtroom advocacy, research, and collaboration with a professional team.

Compensation is tiered, with ranges from $82,250 to $171,750 annually. Education and experience determine tier placement.