Public Defender II: Impactful Criminal Defense & Growth

State of Iowa; Davenport, Park View (IA, IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Robust benefits including health, dent

Generous paid time off and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Flexible Spending Accounts

Job summary

Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a Public Defender 2 in Davenport to advocate for indigent clients and manage courtroom duties through all phases of criminal litigation.

The role requires a Juris Doctor, active Iowa license, and at least two years of full‑time criminal trial experience (or 18 months as Public Defender 1 in state service). It offers a comprehensive benefits package and professional development.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school and admission to the Iowa bar.
• Experience in criminal trial advocacy or prosecution (2 years full-time).
• Alternate qualifying path includes 18 months as Public Defender 1 in the Iowa state executive branch.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for indigent clients at all stages of the criminal justice system.
• Represent clients in court at hearings, bench or jury trials, and sentencing.
• Conduct legal research, collect facts, interview clients and witnesses.

Skills

Oral advocacy

Legal research

Interview clients/witnesses

Negotiation

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Job description

Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a Public Defender 2 in Davenport to advocate for indigent clients and manage courtroom duties through all phases of criminal litigation.

The role requires a Juris Doctor, active Iowa license, and at least two years of full‑time criminal trial experience (or 18 months as Public Defender 1 in state service). It offers a comprehensive benefits package and professional development.