Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I - Loudoun

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Loudoun, Virginia, VA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Virginia Defenders’ Indigent Defense Commission is hiring an Assistant Public Defender I for its Loudoun Public Defender’s Office. The position provides zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy for indigent clients and offers an opportunity to contribute to criminal justice and justice reform in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The attorney handles adult and juvenile criminal cases at various stages of litigation and reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Loudoun office. The position is at-will and includes a local salary supplement. The role requires compassion for indigent clients, strong legal skills, the ability to identify and anticipate legal issues, and skill in preparing and reviewing motions and briefs and making sound courtroom arguments. The attorney must be able to work both independently and collaboratively. The position is full-time and salaried. A Juris Doctor and Virginia State Bar admission are required, although candidates who intend to waive in for Virginia licensure may also be considered. Employment is contingent on successful completion of a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and authorization to work in the United States is required. The position qualifies for Public Service Loan Forgiveness depending on the applicant’s loan type.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Admission to the Virginia State Bar, or intent to waive in for Virginia licensure.
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 track and meet deadlines.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
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.
Compassion for indigent clients, excellent legal skills, ability to identify and anticipate legal issues, and ability to make sound legal arguments.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Nice To Haves

Prior criminal defense experience, including internships or work experience.
Fluency in both Spanish and English.

Responsibilities

Conduct client and witness interviews.
Work with staff investigators to investigate cases.
File and litigate pretrial and post-trial motions.
Identify appropriate appealable issues.
Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
Visit clients in jail in a timely manner.
Communicate regularly with clients, family members, and other approved parties.