Public Defender Practicing Attorney 2026-02337

State of Wyoming; Cheyenne (WY); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plans (457B)

Job summary

Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office in Cheyenne is seeking entry‑level to early‑career attorneys who are passionate about protecting constitutional rights and providing high‑quality defense for indigent clients.

As a defender, you will handle cases from arraignments through appeals, gain courtroom experience quickly, work under experienced mentors, and contribute to a mission‑driven public service team that values professional growth and work‑life balance.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctorate and Wyoming State Bar membership.
• 0-2 years of relevant legal experience.
• Strong research and writing abilities.

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.
• Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education.

Skills

Courtroom experience

Legal research

Legal writing

Advocacy

Education

Juris Doctorate

Job description

Open Until Filled

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 Cheyenne is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice and continually develop their advocacy and appellate skills while working alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.

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 Cheyenne, Wyoming

As Wyoming’s capital and largest city, Cheyenne offers a blend of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure. From historic Western charm to vibrant local events like Cheyenne Frontier Days, you’ll be part of a community with a rich legal and political environment. With quick access to hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation in Curt Gowdy State Park and the Medicine Bow National Forest along with a short drive to reach Denver, Colorado, Cheyenne is the perfect place to grow your career while enjoying an excellent quality of life.

Essential Functions

• 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.

Preferences/Agency Requirements

• Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar.


• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Juris Doctorate

Experience: 0-2 years of relevant legal experience.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.

Physical Working Conditions

• Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.

Notes

• FLSA: Exempt


• This is an At-Will Position

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!

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.