PUBLIC DEFENDER I
State of Arkansas, Harrison, AR, United States
Anticipated Starting Salary:
$35,514
Location:
14th Judicial District, Harrison, AR
Position Number:
22184477 County:
Baxter; Boone; Marion; Newton Posting End Date:
April 11, 2026
Position Highlights:
Half‑time (part‑time) position allows the successful applicant to maintain a private law practice.
Eligible for State of Arkansas benefits, including health insurance and retirement.
All applicants must be able to pass pre‑employment background check.
Position Information:
Job Series:
Public Defenders Classification:
Public Defender I – Career Path Class Code:
LPD03P Pay Grade:
SPC03 Salary Range:
$71,027 - $105,120
Job Summary The Public Defender I is responsible for providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The ideal candidate must possess a valid law license in Arkansas and be prepared to represent clients in criminal defense matters, including pre‑trial motions, trials, and post‑conviction matters.
Primary Responsibilities
Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process.
Develop legal strategies, prepare and file legal documents, conduct research, and evaluate evidence.
Handle a full caseload of misdemeanor and felony cases, including adult and juvenile defendants.
Maintain constant communication with clients and provide clear explanations of case status.
Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board’s review.
Conduct investigations, review police reports, evidence, and other documentation.
Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents.
Represent clients in court hearings and negotiate plea agreements.
Meet reporting requirements on or before the last day of each month.
Obtain a minimum of six hours of legal education annually in criminal law.
Knowledge and Skills
In‑depth understanding of Arkansas and federal criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence.
Strong legal research skills and ability to analyze complex issues.
Ability to assess case details and formulate strong arguments.
Strong public speaking skills, arguing motions and presenting cases.
Effective courtroom management and engagement with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel.
Minimum Qualifications
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed attorney in the state of Arkansas, with a valid bar membership.
Licensure / Certifications Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas with a valid bar membership. Other related education or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
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$35,514
Location:
14th Judicial District, Harrison, AR
Position Number:
22184477 County:
Baxter; Boone; Marion; Newton Posting End Date:
April 11, 2026
Position Highlights:
Half‑time (part‑time) position allows the successful applicant to maintain a private law practice.
Eligible for State of Arkansas benefits, including health insurance and retirement.
All applicants must be able to pass pre‑employment background check.
Position Information:
Job Series:
Public Defenders Classification:
Public Defender I – Career Path Class Code:
LPD03P Pay Grade:
SPC03 Salary Range:
$71,027 - $105,120
Job Summary The Public Defender I is responsible for providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The ideal candidate must possess a valid law license in Arkansas and be prepared to represent clients in criminal defense matters, including pre‑trial motions, trials, and post‑conviction matters.
Primary Responsibilities
Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process.
Develop legal strategies, prepare and file legal documents, conduct research, and evaluate evidence.
Handle a full caseload of misdemeanor and felony cases, including adult and juvenile defendants.
Maintain constant communication with clients and provide clear explanations of case status.
Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board’s review.
Conduct investigations, review police reports, evidence, and other documentation.
Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents.
Represent clients in court hearings and negotiate plea agreements.
Meet reporting requirements on or before the last day of each month.
Obtain a minimum of six hours of legal education annually in criminal law.
Knowledge and Skills
In‑depth understanding of Arkansas and federal criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence.
Strong legal research skills and ability to analyze complex issues.
Ability to assess case details and formulate strong arguments.
Strong public speaking skills, arguing motions and presenting cases.
Effective courtroom management and engagement with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel.
Minimum Qualifications
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Licensed attorney in the state of Arkansas, with a valid bar membership.
Licensure / Certifications Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas with a valid bar membership. Other related education or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
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