Job Title: Public Defender (Trial Attorney IV)
Job Responsibilities:
The role of Public Defender at the organization entails representing clients in serious felony criminal and delinquency cases, including sexual assault, rape, lewd and lascivious cases, homicides, and cases involving juveniles being tried in adult court. The attorney will be responsible for conducting client interviews, developing case strategies, investigating facts, and reviewing evidence to determine the best course of legal action. Additionally, the attorney will draft and file necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines. Negotiation with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate is also a crucial part of the role.
The attorney will appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials as required. Collaboration with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses is necessary to support the defense and address client needs holistically. The attorney is expected to exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision. There may also be responsibilities related to training, supervising, or overseeing other attorneys.
The Public Defender must stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training. Additional duties include preparing or overseeing the drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda, pleadings, and other legal papers, conducting legal research and analysis, applying case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence, and Constitutional principles, reviewing and synthesizing discovery, and interviewing clients early and frequently to make decisions concerning such matters as bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial.
The attorney will determine the need for expert witnesses, locate appropriate experts, and schedule them for trial if needed. The role requires work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document casework and timekeeping in accordance with organization policy, practicing vertical representation in all cases, and following the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense. Other duties may be assigned as needed.
Education and Experience Information:
The minimum qualifications for the position of Public Defender include holding a and being licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing. Candidates should have 3-5 years of experience as a practicing attorney. Preferred qualifications include at least 5 years of experience in the practice of criminal law.
Salary Information:
The position offers a minimum hourly salary of . The maximum salary is not specified.
Benefits:
The organization offers one of the nation's best state retirement systems (PERSI), providing a lifetime benefit. Other excellent benefits include low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance, with employee coverage for PPO at $65/month for medical and vision and for dental (full-time). Generous vacation and sick leave accrual begin as soon as employment starts, along with paid parental leave and eleven paid holidays per year. Multiple retirement savings plans are available, including optional 401K and Deferred Compensation plans. Additional benefits include Group Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, Supplemental Life Insurance, an Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Wellness Programs.
Location:
Applicants should note their office preference in the 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 who wish to apply for this position must submit a cover letter, resume, two references, and a writing sample. Application materials must be submitted no later than June 23, 2025, through the Careers with the State of Idaho website.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
The organization is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, as well as discrimination based on race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, sex, national origin, genetics, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws. The organization is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, with auxiliary aids and services available upon request. Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.
