Assistant Public Defender

State of Ohio • Lima, OH

18d • Onsite

About The Position

The Office of the Ohio Public Defender is seeking an attorney to serve as an Assistant Public Defender in the Northwest Regional Hub of its Trial Services Division, located in Lima, Ohio. The hub serves people in Allen, Hardin, and Putnam counties. The attorney represents indigent clients charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses at the trial level in Common Pleas, Municipal, and Juvenile courts, with this position primarily serving in Allen County Municipal Court. The position does not include federal trial-level representation or post-trial representation in direct appeals, state post-conviction proceedings, or federal habeas litigation.

The successful candidate will thrive in a close-knit team, be interested in trial work and client service in a fast-paced environment, and be eager to work with a supervisor to learn the role and provide high-quality representation. Recent law school graduates awaiting bar results are encouraged to apply. Applicants must submit a writing sample and cover letter; applications without both attachments will not be reviewed.

This is a permanent, full-time, unclassified position assigned to the State of Ohio E-1 Pay Range 13. Starting pay is normally Step 1, with possible higher starting pay for candidates with exceptional qualifications. The position serves at the pleasure and discretion of the State Public Defender.

Requirements

• Admission to the Ohio bar pursuant to section 4705.01, or eligibility to practice under an accepted certificate or temporary certification as described in the posting.
• Submit a writing sample and cover letter with the application.
• Attorney/legal, client advocacy, analyzation, attention to detail, verbal communication, and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Recent law school graduates awaiting bar results are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cases for trial.
• Try cases as lead counsel or co-counsel.
• Represent clients in community control violations.
• Conduct pre-trial conferences, hearings, and plea negotiations.
• Examine witnesses.
• Present legal arguments and evidence.
• Represent indigent clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges in trial-level courts, primarily Allen County Municipal Court.

Benefits

• Medical coverage.
• Free dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums after completion of the eligibility period.
• Paid time off, including vacation, personal, and sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year.
• Childbirth, adoption, and foster care leave.
• Education and development opportunities, including Employee Development Funds and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Public retirement systems, including OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS.
• Optional deferred compensation through Ohio Deferred Compensation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed