Public Defender Practicing Attorney 2026-01763

State of Wyoming; Gillette (WY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Generous paid time off

State retirement benefits

Job summary

Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office in Gillette seeks qualified attorneys to defend indigent clients, gain trial exposure, and work with experienced mentors in a collaborative environment.

Positions offer mentorship, PSLF eligibility, generous leave, and state retirement benefits. You will handle cases across assault, homicide, and felonies in a supportive team while serving Wyoming communities.

Qualifications

• Strong case management and prioritization skills.
• In-depth knowledge of trial procedures, rules of evidence, and criminal statutes.
• Excellent legal research and writing abilities.
• Ability to think quickly, adapt to courtroom challenges, and advocate effectively for clients.

Responsibilities

• Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.
• Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.
• Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients’ best interests.
• Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.
• Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.
• Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office.
• Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and development.

Skills

Case management

Trial procedures knowledge

Research & writing

Quick thinking & advocacy

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

General Description

Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office in Gillette has multiple openings for attorneys dedicated to ensuring high quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice, develop their trial skills, and work alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Open Until Filled

Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender’s Office?

• Unmatched Courtroom Experience: Unlike larger jurisdictions where new attorneys wait years for serious cases, here you will quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.
• Mission-Driven Work: Make a real impact by providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private representation.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Our positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.
• Mentorship & Professional Growth: Work alongside experienced defenders who are committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.
• Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming’s incredible outdoor recreation.

Live and Work in Gillette, Wyoming

Located in Campbell County, Gillette offers a unique combination of small town charm and world-class outdoor recreation. Known as the Energy Capital of the Nation, Gillette is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hunting, fishing, hiking, and access to the Big Horn Mountains. Whether you enjoy big game hunting, fly fishing in pristine waters, or exploring rugged trails, Gillette provides an exceptional quality of life with affordable living and a welcoming community.

Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays
• Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future
• Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
• Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities and MUCH MORE!

Human Resource Contact

Samantha Drew 307-777-7667 [e-mail]

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function which may be performed at the job level.

• Client Representation: Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.
• Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.
• Negotiation & Advocacy: Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients’ best interests.
• Investigation: Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.
• Caseload Management: Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.
• Mentorship & Development: Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office.
• Continuing Education: Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development.

Qualifications

PREFERENCES/AGENCY REQUIREMENTS

Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar and licensed to practice as an attorney in this State.

• You must be licensed to practice law in Wyoming.

Knowledge

• Strong case management and prioritization skills.
• In-depth knowledge of trial procedures, rules of evidence, and criminal statutes.
• Excellent legal research and writing abilities.
• Ability to think quickly, adapt to courtroom challenges, and advocate effectively for clients.

Education

Minimum Qualifications

Juris Doctorate

Physical Working Conditions

• Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.

Notes

• FLSA: Exempt - At Will Position

Supplemental Information

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities. Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.

Working for the State of Wyoming means more than a job — it’s a stable, rewarding career that lets you make a difference while enjoying a great quality of life.

Employees Enjoy

• Comprehensive health coverage – medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family
• Voluntary Benefits – including life insurance for you and family members, ambulance, pet insurance, short/long-term disability, flex spending and health savings accounts
• Multiple retirement options – including the Wyoming Retirement System and a 457B account, helping you plan for long-term financial security
• Generous paid leave and flexible schedules – vacation, sick leave, paid FMLA and 9 paid holidays each year
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility – for those with qualifying student loans
• Training and professional development – to support your career growth and advancement
• Employee Assistance Program – Includes paid short-term counseling, legal, financial and work-life benefits and select employee discounts
• Wellness Program – Earn paid time off and incentives by focusing on your personal health

Know your full value.

Your paycheck is only part of the picture. The State of Wyoming offers a Total Compensation Calculator that shows the full value of your salary plus benefits, so you can clearly see what your complete compensation package looks like.

Working for the Greatest State in the Nation

Wyoming offers a lifestyle you can’t find anywhere else — wide-open spaces, clean air, friendly communities, year-round recreation, and no state income tax.