Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Chesterfield, VA

Government

Chesterfield, VA

Criminal Law - Defense Attorney in Chesterfield, VA

Attorney

No

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

Job Responsibilities:
The Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II positions are designed to serve the mission of the Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) by protecting and defending the rights and dignity of indigent clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. These positions are located within multiple Public Defender offices in Central Virginia, including Chesterfield, Richmond, Petersburg, and Lynchburg. The role is integral to the modern-day Civil Rights Movement, focusing on criminal justice and reform. The attorney is responsible for handling criminal cases for both adults and juveniles at various litigation stages. The key responsibilities include:

- Conducting interviews with clients and witnesses.
- Collaborating with staff investigators to investigate cases thoroughly.
- Filing and litigating pretrial and post-trial motions.
- Noticing appropriate appealable issues.
- Trying cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
- Visiting clients in jail promptly and maintaining regular communication with clients, their families, and other approved parties.

The Assistant Public Defender reports to the Chief Public Defender of their respective office and is expected to work independently and collaboratively. The role demands excellent legal skills, the ability to spot and anticipate legal issues, write and review motions and briefs, and make sound legal arguments in court. A commitment to advocating on behalf of indigent clients and a passion for social justice and criminal justice reform are essential.

Education and Experience Information:
To be considered for the Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II position, candidates must meet the following qualifications:

- Hold a Juris Doctor (.) degree.
- Admission to the Virginia State Bar is required. However, candidates registered for the July 2025 Virginia Bar Exam or intending to waive in for licensure in Virginia may also be considered.
- An active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
- A willingness to try cases and improve as a trial attorney.
- Ability to quickly learn and internalize feedback.
- Skills in tracking and meeting deadlines.
- Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize assignments, and maintain organization.
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to travel to all courts and regional jails.
- Knowledge of criminal law and evidence is mandatory.

For the Assistant Public Defender II position, candidates must have some experience in criminal defense alongside the above qualifications.

Additional Considerations:
- Prior experience in defending criminal cases is 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 and becoming licensed, 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,, plus state benefits.

Special Instructions:
Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume for consideration. Applications are only accepted electronically through the designated website, and mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted. Employment is contingent upon a successful fingerprint-based criminal background check. The position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on the type of loan. The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application and interview process upon request.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is committed to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process, and service-connected veterans are encouraged to submit their disability documentation to obtain an AHP Letter.