Public Defender

To be considered for OPD positions, applicants must complete and submit their application online, as well as upload any required application materials. This position is open until filled with frequent screenings.

Our Mission

To Provide the Most Compassionate and Expert Defense of Clients and the Constitution

Our Vision

Creating Expert Teams of Advocates for Justice, Bringing Respect and Dignity to our Clients to Achieve Holistic and Equitable Outcomes

Reasons to work for the Office of the Public Defender

Our work changes lives! OPD's work makes a difference for the people in our communities. Public Defenders work for their clients, protect constitutional rights, and ensure the system remains fair. We are proud of the work we do. To find out more about OPD visit our website.

Benefits of working for OPD

The ability to work and play in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity! Montana offers theaters, museums, fairs, rodeos, a high-quality educational system, and many recreational opportunities. Montana's mountains, rivers, and lakes provide year-round opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, hiking, camping, boating, biking, hunting, skiing, and snowmobiling can be accessed throughout our great state.

Other fantastic benefits include :

• Health coverage
• Retirement plans
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Work / life balance
• Flexible schedules
• Opportunities and room for professional growth
• Telework (when applicable)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive public service loan forgiveness. Visit the Federal Student Aid website to learn more.

Materials Required of Applicants

About this Opportunity

Job Overview :

Public Defenders serve as a defense attorney for indigent clients and other persons in criminal and civil cases who are entitled by law to assistance of counsel. Public defenders are expected to exercise professional judgment and render competent legal services for all cases handled by the Office of the Public Defender including : felony and misdemeanor criminal charges; youth court proceedings; involuntary mental health or developmental disability commitments; representing parents and children in dependent / neglect matters; and guardianship or conservatorship proceedings, as described in the Montana Public Defender Act Title 47. Montana law authorizes these services. Public Defenders must have a passion, commitment, and willingness to work collaboratively with underprivileged populations to ensure that needed services are provided and to continually advocate for improvements in OPD services.

Essential Functions (Major Duties or Responsibilities)

The job duties and responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to the following :

A. Client Representation (95%)

B. Other duties as assigned (5%)

Physical and Environmental Demands : This position works in a variety of settings such as an office or court, and has regular visits to jails, detention centers or mental health facilities. Fluctuation of workload may require more than a 40-hour work week and requires occasional exposure to stressful situations. Attendance of continuing legal education seminars to meet Bar requirements is necessary. Depending on location, travel to attend court, trainings and provide services to clients is common, which could be up to 40% of the time.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities :

This position requires :

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience) :

This position requires :

Preferred :

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