Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I - Harrisonburg/Rockingham County
About The Position
The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is seeking an Assistant Public Defender I/II to join their mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. This role is on the front lines of criminal justice and justice reform, offering a unique platform to develop and pursue social change and impact clients' lives in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The Harrisonburg Public Defender Office has an opening for an attorney committed to advocating on behalf of indigent clients, handling criminal cases for adults and juveniles through various stages of litigation. The Assistant Public Defender must possess compassion for indigent clients, excellent legal skills, the ability to anticipate legal issues, draft and review legal documents, and present sound legal arguments in court. This position requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Requirements
- A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
- Admission to the Virginia State Bar (or registered to take the July 2026 administration, or intend to waive in for licensure in Virginia)
- An active interest in the cause of indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice
- Willingness to try cases and desire to improve as a trial attorney
- The ability to learn and quickly internalize feedback
- The ability to track and meet deadlines
- The ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- The ability to multi-task, prioritize assignments and remain organized
- A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails
- Knowledge of criminal law and evidence
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience defending criminal cases
Responsibilities
- Conducting client and witness interviews
- Working with staff investigators to investigate cases
- Filing pretrial motions and post-trial motions
- Litigating motions
- Noticing appropriate appealable issues
- Trying cases in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts
- Seeing clients in jail in a timely manner
- Communicating regularly with the client, family members, and other approved parties
Benefits
- State Benefits
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on loan type
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Number of Employees
1-10 employees
