Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II - Roanoke

DHRM•Roanoke, VA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission’s Roanoke Public Defender Office is hiring Assistant Public Defenders to represent indigent adults and juveniles in criminal cases at various stages of litigation. The role advances the Commission’s mission of protecting clients’ rights and dignity through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The Assistant Public Defender reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Roanoke office and is employed at-will. The attorney must bring compassion for indigent clients, strong legal skills, sound courtroom judgment, and the ability to identify and anticipate legal issues. The role requires working independently and collaboratively, communicating effectively, and meeting deadlines. Applicants for the Assistant Public Defender II level must also have at least two years of criminal defense experience, including serious felony and jury trial experience. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume electronically. 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 visa sponsorship. This position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness depending on the applicant’s loan type. Candidates hired before Virginia Bar licensure will work as Law Clerks at a starting salary of $65,158; after passing the Virginia Bar and obtaining licensure, they receive the Assistant Public Defender I title and salary.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Admission to the Virginia State Bar; candidates registered for the February 2027 Virginia Bar Exam or intending to waive in for Virginia licensure may also be considered.
Willingness to try cases and desire to improve as a trial attorney.
Active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
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: at least two years of criminal defense experience, including serious felony and jury trial experience.
Authorization to work in the United States; employment is contingent on successful completion of a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience defending criminal cases will be strongly considered.

Responsibilities

Conduct interviews with clients and witnesses.
Work with staff investigators to investigate cases.
File and litigate pretrial and post-trial motions.
Identify and notice appropriate appealable issues.
Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
Visit clients in jail in a timely manner.
Communicate regularly with clients, family members, and other approved parties.
Write, edit, and review motions and briefs, and make legal arguments in court.