Deputy Chief Appellate Defender
About The Position
New Hampshire Public Defender (NHPD) seeks an experienced and dedicated attorney to serve as Deputy Chief Appellate Defender. The role includes maintaining an appellate caseload and representing clients in appeals before the New Hampshire Supreme Court. The position requires substantial appellate litigation experience, exceptional legal research and writing skills, and a demonstrated commitment to NHPD clients and communities. Alongside managing an independent caseload, the Deputy Chief Appellate Defender collaborates with colleagues on significant appellate matters, participates in organizational training and professional development, and advises NHPD trial attorneys on complex legal questions, emerging issues, and developments in criminal law. The successful candidate is an accomplished advocate committed to strengthening the skills, knowledge, and effectiveness of the broader defense team. Applicants must submit a brief letter of interest, an updated resume, and a writing sample consisting of a brief filed at the New Hampshire Supreme Court or a substantive pleading filed in another appellate court. Applications missing any of these three items will not be considered. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. EST on November 13, 2026. Salary is commensurate with experience; the NHPD Attorney pay range is $65,132 to $110,887.
Requirements
- J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Admission to practice law in New Hampshire, or the ability to obtain admission.
- Substantial experience briefing and arguing cases before the New Hampshire Supreme Court or other appellate courts.
- Deep and demonstrated familiarity with criminal law, constitutional law, and criminal procedure.
- Exceptional legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
- Strong commitment to indigent defense and to the rights, dignity, and interests of NHPD clients.
- Ability to work collaboratively, provide thoughtful legal guidance, and contribute to the professional development of other attorneys.
- Excellent judgment, initiative, and organizational skills, and a commitment to high-quality legal representation.
- Submit a brief letter of interest, an updated resume, and a qualifying appellate writing sample by the application deadline.
Responsibilities
- Maintain an independent appellate caseload and represent clients in appeals before the New Hampshire Supreme Court.
- Collaborate with colleagues on significant appellate matters.
- Participate in organizational training and professional development.
- Serve as a resource to NHPD trial attorneys on complex legal questions, emerging issues, and developments in criminal law.
- Contribute to strengthening the skills, knowledge, and effectiveness of the broader defense team.
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
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
