Public Defender: Indigent Defense Attorney

State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense is seeking attorneys to provide legal services to indigent defendants charged with crimes in district court and juveniles alleged delinquent in juvenile court.

The role involves preparing cases, interviewing clients and witnesses, drafting legal documents, conducting research, and representing clients in court. Experience in criminal law is essential; a Minnesota law degree and bar or Student Practice Rule is required.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college of law and admission to the Minnesota Bar or eligible under the Supreme Court Student Practice Rule.
• For Student Practice Rule positions, must pass the bar on the first attempt.

Responsibilities

• Prepares cases for defense of indigent defendants in district court and juveniles in delinquency matters.
• Interviews clients and prospective witnesses; drafts briefs, memoranda, pleadings and other papers.
• Conducts legal research.
• Represents clients in arraignments, hearings and trials; assists with bail decisions and competency considerations.
• Identifies and coordinates expert witnesses; negotiates plea agreements with prosecutors.
• Consults with social workers, probation officers, judges and referees to determine treatment options; supervises law clerks.

Skills

Legal research

Legal analysis

Basic computer skills

Data analysis

Education

Law degree or eligibility for practice

Bar admission or Student Practice Rule certification

Job description

State of Minnesota Board of Public Defense is seeking attorneys to provide legal services to indigent defendants charged with crimes in district court and juveniles alleged delinquent in juvenile court.

The role involves preparing cases, interviewing clients and witnesses, drafting legal documents, conducting research, and representing clients in court. Experience in criminal law is essential; a Minnesota law degree and bar or Student Practice Rule is required.