Senior Public Defender or Deputy Public Defender
Minnehaha County, Phoenix, AZ, United States
Join Our Advocacy Team
The Public Defender's Office is seeking a dedicated Senior Deputy or Deputy Public Defender with outstanding advocacy skills, passionate about delivering justice to indigent clients in the criminal and juvenile justice systems. Become a vital part of an experienced litigation team committed to high-quality trial work and extensive courtroom practice.
Apply today to advance your criminal defense career, utilize our extensive document library, and collaborate with skilled criminal defense attorneys.
A comprehensive benefits package includes paid holidays; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; a generous paid time off program; an extended sick leave program; enrollment in the South Dakota Retirement System; and a deferred compensation plan!
Please remember to attach a cover letter when applying online.
This position will remain open until filled, with the review of applications starting on March 17, 2026. The hiring range for 2026 is $3,780.00 to $4,376.00 biweekly.
Key Responsibilities:
Advocate for individuals facing felony and misdemeanor charges throughout all litigation phases including pre-trial, trial, and case resolution.
Coordinate efforts with a support team of paralegals and staff to manage a challenging caseload effectively.
Maintain ongoing communication with clients via phone, office appointments, and institutional visits, keeping them informed about investigations and court outcomes.
Appear at scheduled court proceedings related to your assigned cases.
Conduct comprehensive legal research and draft necessary motions and pleadings.
Interview witnesses and review legal documentation including police reports and transcripts.
Participate in professional development training both within and outside the office.
Qualifications:
Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school and admission to practice law in South Dakota, or eligibility to sit for the next South Dakota bar examination.
A valid driver's license and a clean driving record with Minnehaha County.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Knowledge of civil and criminal law, court procedures, and legal research principles.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse clientele and meet their needs.
Strong research skills and familiarity with legal precedents.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively present legal cases.
Ability to establish productive working relationships with colleagues, clients, and other agencies.
Professional demeanor and appearance.
A commitment to serving indigent clients and providing social advocacy.
For consideration as a Senior Deputy Public Defender, a minimum of two years of relevant experience is required.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The Public Defender's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination for all employees and applicants. Accommodations for disabilities are available upon request.
Compensation: $98,280 - $113,776 per year
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Apply today to advance your criminal defense career, utilize our extensive document library, and collaborate with skilled criminal defense attorneys.
A comprehensive benefits package includes paid holidays; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; a generous paid time off program; an extended sick leave program; enrollment in the South Dakota Retirement System; and a deferred compensation plan!
Please remember to attach a cover letter when applying online.
This position will remain open until filled, with the review of applications starting on March 17, 2026. The hiring range for 2026 is $3,780.00 to $4,376.00 biweekly.
Key Responsibilities:
Advocate for individuals facing felony and misdemeanor charges throughout all litigation phases including pre-trial, trial, and case resolution.
Coordinate efforts with a support team of paralegals and staff to manage a challenging caseload effectively.
Maintain ongoing communication with clients via phone, office appointments, and institutional visits, keeping them informed about investigations and court outcomes.
Appear at scheduled court proceedings related to your assigned cases.
Conduct comprehensive legal research and draft necessary motions and pleadings.
Interview witnesses and review legal documentation including police reports and transcripts.
Participate in professional development training both within and outside the office.
Qualifications:
Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school and admission to practice law in South Dakota, or eligibility to sit for the next South Dakota bar examination.
A valid driver's license and a clean driving record with Minnehaha County.
Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
Knowledge of civil and criminal law, court procedures, and legal research principles.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse clientele and meet their needs.
Strong research skills and familiarity with legal precedents.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively present legal cases.
Ability to establish productive working relationships with colleagues, clients, and other agencies.
Professional demeanor and appearance.
A commitment to serving indigent clients and providing social advocacy.
For consideration as a Senior Deputy Public Defender, a minimum of two years of relevant experience is required.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The Public Defender's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination for all employees and applicants. Accommodations for disabilities are available upon request.
Compensation: $98,280 - $113,776 per year
#J-18808-Ljbffr