Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II - Central Virginia Offices
About The Position
The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission is hiring Assistant Public Defenders I/II for its Central Virginia offices in Chesterfield and Richmond. The role serves the Commission’s mission to protect and defend clients’ rights and dignity through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. Attorneys handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles at various stages of litigation in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The position reports to the Chief Public Defender of the office and is employed at-will. The attorney advocates for indigent clients, prepares and litigates cases, and tries matters in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts. The role requires compassion for clients, strong legal skills, the ability to identify and anticipate legal issues, and sound courtroom advocacy. The attorney must be able to work independently and collaboratively. This is a full-time, salaried position. A Juris Doctor degree and Virginia State Bar admission are required, though applicants registered for the February 2027 Virginia Bar Exam or intending to waive in for Virginia licensure may be considered. Applicants hired before obtaining Virginia bar licensure will work as Law Clerks at a starting salary of $65,158; upon passing the Virginia Bar and becoming licensed, they will receive the Assistant Public Defender I title and salary. Assistant Public Defender II candidates must be licensed and have some criminal defense experience. Employment is contingent on a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and authorization to work in the United States is required; the Commission does not provide sponsorship.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Virginia State Bar admission, or eligibility for consideration while registered for the February 2027 Virginia Bar Exam or intending to waive in for Virginia licensure.
- Active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
- Willingness to try cases and desire to improve as a trial attorney.
- Ability to learn and quickly internalize feedback.
- Ability to track and meet deadlines.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to multitask, prioritize assignments, and remain organized.
- Valid driver’s license and means to travel to courts and regional jails.
- Knowledge of criminal law and evidence.
- For Assistant Public Defender II: Virginia licensure and some criminal defense experience.
- Authorization to work in the United States.
- Successful completion of a fingerprint-based criminal background check.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience defending criminal cases will be strongly considered.
- Candidates who recently passed the July bar exam are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Conduct client and witness interviews.
- Work with staff investigators to investigate cases.
- File pretrial and post-trial motions.
- Litigate motions.
- Identify and notice appropriate appealable issues.
- Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
- See clients in jail in a timely manner.
- Communicate regularly with clients, family members, and other approved parties.
- Advocate for indigent clients through high-quality legal representation.
Benefits
- State benefits
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility depending on loan type
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
