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

State of Virginia•Danville, VA

51d•$77,976 - $87,517

About The Position

Virginia Defenders - Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is seeking to fill numerous Assistant Public Defender positions that will serve our mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. This is a regional job posting. Multiple locations will be hiring for Assistant Public Defenders I/II. The following Public Defender offices have open positions: Pulaski, Martinsville, Bedford, and Danville. The Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) is excited to announce this opportunity to be on the front lines of what many consider to be the modern-day Civil Rights Movement-criminal justice and justice reform. This is a unique platform to develop and pursue social change and impact the lives of clients in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The IDC's Southwest Virginia region of Public Defender Offices has openings for attorneys who are committed to advocating on behalf of indigent clients. The attorney will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles in various stages of litigation. The IDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Assistant Public Defender reports to the Chief Public Defender of their office and is employed at-will. The Assistant Public Defender must have compassion for our indigent clients, excellent legal skills, the ability to spot and anticipate legal issues, the ability to write, edit, and review motions and briefs, and the ability to make sound legal arguments in a courtroom setting. This position requires the ability to work independently and collaboratively. The IDC is committed to inclusive hiring and dedicated to diversity in our workforce. We encourage and welcome qualified applicants of all identities, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission are required for consideration for this full-time, salaried position. However, if you are registered to take the February 2026 administration of the Virginia Bar Exam, or if you intend to waive in for licensure in Virginia, you may still be considered for the position. Candidates who recently passed the July bar exam are encouraged to apply.
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 is important.
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 are required.
Knowledge of criminal law and evidence is required.
To qualify for the Assistant Public Defender II position, the applicant must be licensed and have some experience in criminal defense along with the above-mentioned qualifications.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience defending criminal cases will be strongly considered.

Responsibilities

Duties include conducting client and witness interviews
working with staff investigators to investigate cases
filing pretrial motions and post-trial motions
litigating motions
noticing appropriate appealable issues
responsible for trying cases in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts
expected to see clients in jail in a timely manner and communicate regularly with the client, family members, and other approved parties.