Attorney - Assistant Public Defender I - Hampton

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Hampton, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission is hiring an Assistant Public Defender I/II for its Hampton Public Defender Office. The attorney advocates for indigent adult and juvenile clients and handles criminal cases at various stages of litigation in a fast-paced, courtroom-based environment. The role supports the Commission’s mission of protecting clients’ rights and dignity through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy and offers an opportunity to contribute to criminal justice reform and social change. The attorney works independently and collaboratively, reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Hampton office, and is employed at-will. The position is full-time and salaried. A Juris Doctor and Virginia State Bar admission are required, though applicants scheduled for the February 2027 Virginia Bar Exam or intending to waive in for Virginia licensure may also be considered. Those hired before obtaining Virginia licensure work as Law Clerks at a starting salary of $65,158; after passing the Virginia Bar and becoming licensed, they receive the Assistant Public Defender I title and salary. The posted hiring range is $77,976 plus state benefits.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Admission to the Virginia State Bar; candidates taking the February 2027 Virginia Bar Exam or seeking licensure through waiver may also be considered.
Active interest in indigent defense, criminal justice reform, and social justice.
Willingness to try cases and a 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; ability to write, edit, and review motions and briefs; sound courtroom advocacy; and ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in public defense will be strongly considered.

Responsibilities

Conduct interviews with clients and witnesses.
Work with staff investigators to investigate cases.
File and litigate pretrial and post-trial motions.
Identify and notice appropriate appealable issues.
Try cases in General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts.
Meet with clients in jail in a timely manner.
Communicate regularly with clients, family members, and other approved parties.
Track and meet deadlines, prioritize assignments, and manage multiple tasks.