Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I/II - Prince William
About The Position
The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC), Prince William Office, is seeking an Assistant Public Defender I / II. This role is on the front lines of criminal justice and justice reform, offering a unique platform to develop and pursue social change and directly impact clients' lives in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The successful applicant will have a demonstrated interest in the mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The attorney will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles in various stages of litigation, reporting to the Chief Public Defender. Employees receive a local salary supplement in addition to their state salary. The position requires compassion for indigent clients, a desire to become a dominant trial lawyer, excellent legal skills, the ability to anticipate legal issues, and strong writing and editing skills for motions and briefs. It demands both independent work and collaborative teamwork.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree
- Virginia State Bar admission (or registered to take the February 2027 administration of the Virginia Bar Exam, or intend to waive in for licensure in Virginia, or awaiting results from the July 2026 administration of the Virginia bar exam)
- An active interest in the cause of indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice
- Willingness to try cases and desire to improve as a trial attorney
- The ability to learn and quickly internalize feedback
- The ability to track and meet deadlines
- The ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- The ability to multi-task, prioritize assignments and remain organized
- A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails
- Knowledge of criminal law and evidence
- For Assistant Public Defender II: at least two (2) years of experience in public defense
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience defending criminal cases
Responsibilities
- Conducting client and witness interviews
- Working with staff to investigate and develop cases
- Filing pre- and post-trial motions
- Litigating both motions and trials
- Consistently maintaining digital files
- Routinely identifying appealable issues
- Trying cases in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts
- Seeing clients in jail in a timely manner
- Communicating regularly with the client, family members, and other approved parties
Benefits
- State Benefits
- Local Salary Supplement
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on loan type
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
