Sr. Assistant Public Defender

Lancopasheriff; Lancaster (Lancaster County); On-site; USD 64,000 - 86,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Lancaster County Public Defender's Office seeks a Sr. Assistant Public Defender to provide experienced trial representation for indigent adults charged with serious crimes, including homicide. The role includes supporting the Chief Public Defender and mentoring junior attorneys in magistrate, common pleas, and appellate courts.

Requirements include a J.D. degree, Pennsylvania license, and at least five years in criminal defense or prosecution, with death penalty trial qualification.

Qualifications

• J.D. required and PA bar eligibility.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in criminal law as prosecutor or defense counsel.
• Ability to represent indigent clients in homicide and major felony cases.
• Strong communication with clients, courts, and colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Provide effective trial representation for homicide and major offenses.
• Assist Public Defender leadership in supervision of junior attorneys.
• Prepare reports and enter case data into the system.
• Complete required CLE to maintain license and death penalty certification.

Skills

Criminal trial advocacy

Indigent defense

Legal research

Client communication

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Bachelor's degree

Job description

## Sr. Assistant Public DefenderApplylocations: Public Defender-150 North Queen Street, Lancaster, PAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: JR-2026-291**Starting Compensation:**$74,735.00/AnnuallyFind job security and stability alongside a growing community and a team that supports you. Level up your career through a large network and specialty training.If you're passionate about making a difference, apply today to join us in serving the community!**Job Description:****JOB SUMMARY*** Experienced trial attorney providing professional legal representation to indigent adults charged with crime, with an emphasis on representation of persons charged with homicide and serious felonies.* Practice in magisterial district court, court of common pleas, and Pennsylvania appellate courts.* Occupant of position assists Chief Public Defender in the general instruction and guidance of the junior trial attorneys.**REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS*** Occupant of position reports to and receives direct supervision from a Public Defender Manager with oversight from the First Deputy Public Defender and Chief Public Defender.**ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS*** Provide competent and effective legal representation at trial level to defendants charged with homicide.* Provide competent and effective legal representation at trial level to defendants charged with major offense **OTHER SPECIFIC TASKS OR DUTIES*** Prepare reports to Chief Public Defender as directed.* Enter data into the office's computerized case management system.* Complete continuing legal education in order to maintain license to practice law, to maintain death penalty certification, and to enhance overall legal knowledge.* Serve as member of sitting committees and ad hoc committees as directed by Chief Public Defender or as requested by the court.**MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS*** Baccalaureate degree (e.g. Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science).* Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.* License to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.* Minimum of five years as a practicing attorney with a workload devoted exclusively or primarily to the practice of criminal law as either a prosecutor or defense counsel.* Qualified to serve as defense counsel in death penalty trials under the terms of Rule 801 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure.* Any equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge skills and ability to perform this job.**KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES*** Commitment to providing a high level of professional service to indigent adults charged with crime and to children in delinquency proceedings.* Ability to communicate with clientele, opposing counsel, judges, court-related personnel, prison personnel, and witnesses.## ## **REQUIRED LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/CLEARANCES*** License to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under the rules and regulations of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania.* Qualified to serve as defense counsel in death penalty trials under the terms of Rule 801 of the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure.* If meeting the criteria for "driver" designation under the Lancaster County Transportation Policy, then compliance with "Authorized Driver Guidelines" under same Policy; PA State Criminal history check.## ## **PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT*** Work is sedentary in nature. Except in the context of driving a motor vehicle in the course of employment, there are no specific physical demands.The County of Lancaster offers comprehensive benefits to our employees. Read more about our benefits here. Lancaster County Government provides Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, genetic information or disability. The County also observes all applicable laws regarding Veterans status. The County reflects this action in all areas of employment and compensation practices and policies. Employment with the County is based upon the ability to perform the job as well as dependability and reliability once an individual is hired.**About Us**Working for Lancaster County offers not just a job, but a chance to thrive both professionally and personally. The benefits package for full-time employees, including paid time off, health insurance and flexible healthcare plans, ensures that you feel valued and supported in your role. With employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement and more, you'll have the resources you need to provide excellent service to the 550,000 residents of Lancaster County.With 1,600 full-time employees and 300 part-time employees spread across 40 departments, there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development within the county. Whether you're interested in human services, public safety, administration, or any other field, there's a place for you to make a difference and advance your career.Lancaster County itself is a vibrant and diverse community, offering something for everyone. From the peaceful farmland to the bustling city and towns, there's always something new to discover. Whether it's exploring farmers markets, enjoying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the rich history of the area, Lancaster County has endless opportunities for you and your family to learn, explore, and enjoy. Joining the team at Lancaster County means becoming part of a community dedicated to maintaining and improving this wonderful place we call home.