Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Hailey, ID

Government

Hailey, ID

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Hailey, ID

Attorney

1-3 yrs required

No

Job Title: Public Defender

Job Responsibilities:

The role of Public Defender at the organization involves defending clients in low-level felony criminal and delinquency cases, including but not limited to burglary and drug possession cases, child protective act cases, and felony specialty court proceedings. Attorneys at this level are expected to exercise a high degree of independent judgment in handling assigned cases. Key responsibilities include:

- Representing clients in low-level felony criminal and delinquency cases.
- Developing case strategies, investigating facts, and reviewing evidence to determine the best course of legal action.
- Drafting and filing necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines.
- Negotiating with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate.
- Appearing in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials as required.
- Collaborating with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically.
- Exercising independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision.
- Providing guidance and mentorship to less experienced attorneys as needed.
- Staying current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training.
- Preparing or overseeing the drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda, pleadings, and other legal papers.
- Conducting legal research and analyzing data and legal documents.
- Applying case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence, and Constitutional principles.
- Reviewing and synthesizing discovery.
- Interviewing clients early and frequently and making decisions concerning such things as bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial.
- Determining the need for expert witnesses, locating appropriate experts, and scheduling them for trial if needed.
- Working in the Case Management System (CMS) to document casework and timekeeping in accordance with organization policy.
- Practicing vertical representation in all cases.
- Following the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense.
- Performing other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Information:

Minimum Qualifications:
- Juris Doctorate (.) from an accredited college or university school of law.
- Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing.
- 1-2 years of experience as a practicing attorney or a 1–2-year judicial clerkship.

Preferred Qualifications:
- At least 3 years of experience practicing criminal law.

Salary Information:

The position offers an hourly minimum salary of .

Additional Information:

The organization values its employees and offers meaningful work that has a direct impact on citizens across the state. Additionally, the organization is a qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Benefits include:
- One of the Nation’s best state retirement systems (PERSI) that offers a lifetime benefit.
- Excellent low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
- Paid parental leave.
- Eleven paid holidays per year.
- Multiple retirement savings plans, including optional 401K and Deferred Compensation plan.
- Group Life Insurance/Disability Insurance/Supplemental Life Insurance.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Flexible Spending Accounts.
- Wellness Programs.

Location:

Applicants are requested to note their office preference(s) in their cover letter, with options including Boise, Pocatello, Hailey, Sandpoint, Idaho Falls, Caldwell, Burley, Gooding, Rigby, Coeur d'Alene, American Falls, and/or Twin Falls.

Application Process:

Qualified applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, two references, and a writing sample by June 23, 2025. Application materials should be submitted through the Careers with the State of Idaho website.

EEO/ADA/Veteran Information:

The State of Idaho is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination based on various protected statuses. The state is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.