Trial Attorney 3 - Bonner County

State of Idaho • Sandpoint, ID

103d • $102,000

About The Position

The Idaho State Public Defender (SPD) is a newly created state agency which provides trial representation to indigent criminal defendants pursuant to Idaho Code §§ 19-6005, 19-6009 (effective 10/1/24). The SPD is responsible for all indigent defense cases throughout the State of Idaho, including both juveniles and adults. The SPD values its employees and offers meaningful work that has a direct impact on citizens across the state. Additionally, the SPD is a qualifying employer for the purposes of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Requirements

• Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited college or university school of law.
• Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing.
• 1-2 years of experience as a practicing attorney.

Nice To Haves

• At least 3 years of experience practicing criminal law.

Responsibilities

• Defend clients in low level felony criminal and delinquency cases including burglary and drug possession cases; child protective act cases and felony specialty court proceedings.
• Develop case strategies, investigate facts, and review evidence to determine the best course of legal action.
• Draft and file necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines.
• Negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate.
• Appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials as required.
• Collaborate with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically.
• Exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced attorneys as needed.
• Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training.
• Prepare or oversee the drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda, pleadings and other legal papers.
• Conduct legal research and analyses data and legal documents.
• Apply case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence and Constitutional principles.
• Review and synthesize discovery.
• Interview clients early and frequently and make decisions concerning such things as bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial.
• Determine the need for expert witnesses; locate appropriate experts and schedules them for trial if needed.
• Work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document case work and timekeeping in accordance with SPD policy.
• Practice vertical representation in all cases.
• Follow the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Best Retirement Available in The Nation through PERSI.
• Excellent low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
• Paid parental leave.
• Eleven paid holidays per year.
• Multiple retirement savings plans, including optional 401K and Deferred Compensation plan.
• Group Life Insurance/Disability Insurance/Supplemental Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Wellness Programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree