PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Overview

Position Number : 22184493 Public Defender I (Full-Time)

County : Howard (Primary), Sevier

Posting End Date : September 17, 2025

Anticipated Starting Salary : $71,027.00

Location : 9th-W Judicial District, Ashdown, AR

All applicants must be able to pass a pre-employment background check.

Job Information

Job Series : Public Defenders

Classification : Public Defender I – Career Path

Class Code : LPD03P

Pay Grade : SPC03

Salary Range : $71,027 - $105,120

Job Summary

The Public Defender I is responsible for providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring that all clients receive fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The ideal candidate must possess a valid law license in Arkansas and be prepared to represent clients in criminal defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, and post-conviction matters.

Primary Responsibilities

• Meet or exceed the requirements for position of Public Defender I
• 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.

Knowledge And Skills

Minimum Qualifications

Licensure / Certifications

Seniority level

Employment type

Job function

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