Public Defender & Defense Team Leader

National Legal Aid & Defender Association; Virginia; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

National Legal Aid & Defender Association seeks a Public Defender in Virginia to lead a diverse team of advocacy professionals. You will manage a personal caseload while championing zealous representation and ethical practice. The role blends courtroom excellence with leadership, policy oversight, and community engagement.

You will drive training, supervise staff, ensure compliance with indigent defense standards, and serve as the office's public face within the justice system.

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate strong leadership and mentoring of a defense team.
• Proven ability to manage complex case loads and prep for trials.
• Commitment to indigent defense and courtroom excellence.

Responsibilities

• Defend clients with zealous and ethical advocacy while handling a personal caseload.
• Lead and supervise the defense team; guide case preparation and trial strategy.
• Oversee budgets, records retention, timekeeping and policy compliance.
• Foster a high-performing culture through training and performance management.
• Serve as public face and spokesperson, building relationships with justice partners.

Skills

Legal leadership

Trial advocacy

Case management

Policy compliance

Community outreach

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

National Legal Aid & Defender Association seeks a Public Defender in Virginia to lead a diverse team of advocacy professionals. You will manage a personal caseload while championing zealous representation and ethical practice. The role blends courtroom excellence with leadership, policy oversight, and community engagement.

You will drive training, supervise staff, ensure compliance with indigent defense standards, and serve as the office's public face within the justice system.