Overview
Position Number : 22184494 Public Defender I - The Arkadelphia Public Defender Office is seeking to hire two (2) licensed attorneys to fill part-time positions. These part-time roles are eligible for participation in state health benefits and retirement.
Details
- County : Clark (Primary)
- Posting End Date : September 17, 2025
- Anticipated Starting Salary : $35,514
- Location : 9TH-E Judicial District, Arkadelphia, AR
- All applicants must be able to pass a pre-employment background check
- Job Series : Public Defenders
- Classification : Public Defender I – Career Path
- Class Code : LPD03P
- Pay Grade : SPC03
- Salary Range : $71,027 - $105,120
Responsibilities
Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law.Develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, prior to or upon conclusion of probationary period of nine (9) months.Provide legal advice and counsel to clients regarding their rights, case developments, and available options.Develop case strategies, including preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence to ensure the best possible defense for clients.Handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases, with a focus on both adult and juvenile defendants as required.Maintain constant communication with clients to keep them informed of case status and legal options, providing clear explanations in an understandable manner.Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board's review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives.Conduct thorough investigations into all aspects of each case, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts.Review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess the strength of the case and identify defense strategies.Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents to support clients' defense.Perform legal research to stay up-to-date with criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies to ensure effective defense in court.Work closely with other attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff within the Public Defender's Office to provide the best possible defense for clients.Represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials.Negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel, ensuring clients' best interests are considered in the negotiation process.Report case dispositions on or before the last day of every month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the Commission.Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law.Qualifications and Skills
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership.In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as federal criminal law as applicable.Strong legal research skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies.Ability to quickly assess case details, identify key issues, and formulate strong arguments for the defense.Strong public speaking skills, including the ability to argue motions, present cases to judges and juries, and deliver persuasive closing arguments.Comfortable managing courtroom dynamics and effectively engaging with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel.Minimum qualifications : licensed attorney in Arkansas with bar membership.Equal Opportunity
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
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