Assistant Public Defender

State of North Carolina•Halifax, MA

1d•$85,000 - $100,000•Onsite

About The Position

The North Carolina Office of Indigent Defense Services is seeking an experienced attorney to join the District 7 Public Defender’s Office as an Assistant Public Defender assigned primarily to felony representation in Halifax County. This position is ideal for a seasoned criminal defense attorney who is passionate about protecting constitutional rights, trying complex cases, and serving a rural community where skilled advocates make a meaningful difference every day. As a member of our collaborative team, you will represent indigent clients charged with serious felony offenses from appointment through disposition. You will handle a diverse felony caseload, litigate motions, negotiate resolutions when appropriate, and try cases before juries. You will work alongside experienced attorneys, investigators, client advocates, and community partners committed to providing exceptional, client-centered representation. District 7 serves Bertie, Halifax, Hertford, and Northampton Counties in northeastern North Carolina. Our office embraces innovation, teamwork, and holistic defense while offering attorneys meaningful courtroom experience and the opportunity to have a lasting impact on the lives of clients and the communities we serve. Outside the courtroom, you’ll enjoy the quality of life that northeastern North Carolina offers. The Chowan, Roanoke, Middle, and Cashie Rivers provide outstanding opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The Albemarle Sound and the renowned Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course are nearby, and the Outer Banks, Virginia Beach, and Washington, D.C. are all within easy driving distance. District 7 offers the opportunity to enjoy the peace of a close-knit community while remaining conveniently connected to larger metropolitan areas. This position includes North Carolina State employment benefits, including the State Health Plan, retirement benefits, paid leave, extensive continuing legal education opportunities, the Annual Public Defender Conference, access to expert forensic resources, and eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program in accordance with federal requirements. If you are an experienced criminal defense attorney seeking a challenging felony practice, meaningful trial work, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact in one of North Carolina’s legal desert communities, we encourage you to apply.

Requirements

Juris Doctor degree from an ABA accredited law school
Active license to practice law in North Carolina
Must provide a résumé and cover letter

Nice To Haves

Experienced NC licensed attorneys
Experienced Assistant Public Defender – Felony Division (Halifax County)
Seasoned criminal defense attorney
Passionate about protecting constitutional rights
Experience trying complex cases
Interest in serving a rural community
Experience with holistic defense

Responsibilities

Advocate for client’s rights and interests prior to and during court proceedings, hearings, and trials. This includes conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, developing defense strategies, assisting in investigating cases and gathering evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting evidence in court.
Stay informed about relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents.
Collaborate with other legal professionals, including colleagues within the public defender's office, investigators, and support staff.
Handle administrative tasks related to caseload management, document preparation, and other responsibilities within the public defender's office.
Maintain open and effective communication with clients to keep them informed about their cases, explain legal options, and address their concerns. Also, maintain communication to better understand your client’s unique situation and build a strong defense on your client’s behalf.
Adhere to ethical standards and legal responsibilities in the practice of law.