Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I - Norfolk

DHRM • Norfolk, VA

11d • Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is seeking an Assistant Public Defender I to join its Norfolk office. This role is crucial in upholding the mission of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of clients through zealous, compassionate, and high-quality legal advocacy. The position offers a unique platform to be involved in criminal justice and justice reform, contributing to social change and impacting clients' lives in a dynamic courtroom environment. The attorney will handle criminal cases for adults and juveniles at various stages of litigation, reporting to the Chief Public Defender. Key attributes for this role include compassion for indigent clients, excellent legal skills, the ability to identify and anticipate legal issues, strong writing and editing skills for motions and briefs, and the capacity to present sound legal arguments in court. The position also requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Requirements

• A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
• Admission to the Virginia State Bar (or registered to take the February 2027 administration, or intending to waive in for licensure in Virginia, or awaiting results from the July 2026 administration).
• Willingness to try cases and a desire to improve as a trial attorney.
• An active interest in the cause of indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience defending criminal cases.
• Prior internships experience with the IDC/Legal Aid.
• Any experience working in the city of Norfolk.

Responsibilities

• Conducting client and witness interviews.
• Working with staff investigators to investigate cases.
• Filing pretrial and post-trial motions.
• Litigating motions.
• Noticing appropriate 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
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) depending on loan type.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level