Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II - Tidewater Virginia Offices

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Newport News, VA

2d•$77,976 - $87,512

About The Position

The Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is hiring Assistant Public Defenders I/II for its Chesapeake, Hampton, and Newport News offices in Tidewater Virginia. The role advances the IDC’s mission of protecting and defending 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 Assistant Public Defender reports to the Chief Public Defender of their office and is employed at-will. The work calls for compassion for indigent clients, strong legal skills, sound courtroom advocacy, and the ability to identify and anticipate legal issues, draft and review motions and briefs, and work independently and collaboratively. The position is full-time and salaried. A Juris Doctor and Virginia State Bar admission are generally required, though candidates scheduled to take 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; after passing the Virginia Bar and becoming licensed, they receive the Assistant Public Defender I title and salary. The posted hiring ranges are $77,976 for Assistant Public Defender I and $87,512 for Assistant Public Defender II, plus state benefits. The Assistant Public Defender II role requires licensure and 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 IDC does not provide sponsorship. The position may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness depending on loan type.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission; candidates scheduled to take the February 2027 Virginia Bar Exam or intending to waive in for Virginia licensure may also be considered.
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 communicate effectively orally and in writing.
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 are required in addition to the qualifications above.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

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 interviews with clients and witnesses.
Work with staff investigators to investigate cases.
File pretrial and post-trial motions and 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.
Track and meet deadlines, prioritize assignments, and remain organized.