GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender's Office in Laramie (with a satellite office in Rawlins) is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice, develop their trial skills, and work alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment. Join our team as a Criminal Defense Attorney, where you will provide dedicated legal representation to indigent clients facing criminal charges.
Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender's Office?
- Unmatched Courtroom Experience : Quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.
- Mission-Driven Work : Make a real impact by providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private representation.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) : Positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.
- Mentorship & Professional Growth : Work alongside experienced defenders committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.
- Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance : Stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming's outdoor recreation.
- Live and Work in Laramie and Rawlins : Enjoy the city's outdoor opportunities, community, and the benefits of a state with no income tax.
Human Resource Contact : Samantha Drew – 307-777-7667 – samantha.drew2@wyo.gov
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Client Representation : Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.Case Preparation : Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.Negotiation & Advocacy : Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors to align outcomes with clients' best interests.Investigation : Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.Caseload Management : Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.Mentorship & Development : Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns, fostering professional growth within the office.Continuing Education : Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development.QUALIFICATIONS
PREFERENCES / AGENCY REQUIREMENTS : Preference may be given to applicants who are currently licensed to practice law in Wyoming, recent law school graduates, and those awaiting bar exam results are strongly encouraged to apply.
KNOWLEDGE
Ability to manage multiple cases / tasks, prioritize and meet deadlines.Knowledge of trial and hearing procedure and rules of evidence; ability to present facts, law, and argument clearly and logically in written and oral form.Knowledge of criminal statutes, court procedures, and legal research methods.Skilled in managing a caseload and responding quickly to changing priorities.Knowledge of substantive and procedural laws in criminal justice, including state, federal, and administrative law.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education : Juris Doctorate.
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Travel required between Laramie and Rawlins to meet caseload demands across the Second Judicial District.NOTES
FLSA : Exempt.This is an At-Will Position.SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure : http : / / agency.governmentjobs.com / wyoming / default.cfm
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
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