Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Petersburg, VA

Government

Petersburg, VA

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Petersburg, VA

Attorney

No

Title: Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II - Central Virginia Offices

Job Responsibilities:

The Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II will serve multiple locations within the Central Virginia region, including Chesterfield, Richmond, Petersburg, and Lynchburg. The primary responsibilities include:

- Advocating on behalf of indigent clients by managing criminal cases for adults and juveniles at various litigation stages.
- Conducting interviews with clients and witnesses, collaborating with staff investigators to investigate cases.
- Filing pretrial and post-trial motions, litigating motions, and identifying appealable issues.
- Trying cases in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
- Visiting clients in jail promptly and maintaining communication with clients, their families, and other approved parties.
- Demonstrating compassion for indigent clients while exhibiting excellent legal skills and the ability to make sound legal arguments in court.
- Working independently and collaboratively within the legal team.

Education and Experience Information:

- A Juris Doctor (.) degree and admission to the Virginia State Bar are mandatory for consideration. However, candidates registered to take the July 2025 Virginia Bar Exam or those intending to waive in for licensure in Virginia may also be considered.
- Applicants should have an active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
- A willingness to try cases and improve as a trial attorney is essential.
- Candidates must possess the ability to quickly learn and internalize feedback, track and meet deadlines, and communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- The position requires the ability to multitask, prioritize assignments, and remain organized.
- A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails are required.
- Knowledge of criminal law and evidence is necessary.
- To qualify for the Assistant Public Defender II position, the applicant must be licensed and have some experience in criminal defense.

Additional Considerations:

- Prior experience in defending criminal cases will be strongly considered.
- Individuals hired before obtaining Virginia bar licensure will be employed as Law Clerks with a starting salary of $63,. Upon passing the Virginia Bar, they will receive the title and salary of an Assistant Public Defender I.

Salary Information:

The hiring range for the position is $75, to $84,, along with state benefits. For those initially employed as Law Clerks due to pending bar licensure, the starting salary is set at $63,.

Special Instructions:

- Applications must include a cover letter and resume. Failure to submit both may lead to disqualification.
- Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
- Authorization to work in the . is required, with the organization using the E-Verify system and not providing sponsorship.
- Applications must be submitted electronically through the designated website; mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.
- The position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on the type of loan.
- The organization provides reasonable accommodations for applicants if requested during the application and/or interview process.
- The organization is committed to inclusive hiring and encourages individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

The organization is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse workforce, serving as an Equal Opportunity Employer.