PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Job Description:

PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Date: May 3, 2025

Req ID: 39467

Location: Stuttgart, AR, US, 72160

Category: AR PUBLIC DEFENDER COMMISSION

Anticipated Starting Salary: $31,266

Position Number: 22095088 Public Defender I. The Arkansas Public Defender's office is seeking a licensed attorney to fill a part-time position in the 11E Judicial District. This position is eligible for State benefits, such as paid leave and insurance. Willingness to start quickly is a plus.

County: Arkansas
Posting End Date: May 11, 2025
Anticipated Starting Salary: $31,266

Location: Stuttgart, AR. Arkansas Co.

** APPLICANTS MUST BE ABLE TO PASS A BACKGROUND CHECK**

Position Information

Class Code: G025N

Grade: GS11

FLSA Status: EXEMPT

Salary Range: $62,531.00 - $90,670.00

Summary

The Public Defender I is responsible for conducting legal research, writing legal documents to use in litigation, and representing clients in any forum wherein they are at a risk for a loss of liberty. This position is governed by State and Federal law and agency policy.

Functions

• Provides legal representation to all defendants, as required by the courts and the Arkansas Public Defender Commission.
• Investigates defendant's case, by locating and interviewing witnesses, in order to obtain information relevant to the defense and sentence of the client.
• Write briefs, motions, and other pleadings supporting the case arguments to facilitate the litigation process and prepares, tries, and argues routine and some conflicts cases before state court forums.
• Drafts new or amended legislation or regulations designed to enforce legislative intent.
• Represents the agency in defendant legal proceedings, including administrative hearings and state and appellate court hearings.
• Analyzes and interprets state and federal laws to determine impact on agency programs and to advise personnel in appropriate necessary action.
• Conducts routine negotiations with clients, witnesses, and other interested parties in gathering information and investigates and reviews claims to determine merits or proceedings of the case or complaint.
• Performs related responsibilities as required or assigned.

Dimensions

None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of state and federal laws, regulations, and precedents.
• Knowledge of legal research and writing techniques.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct work of others.
• Ability to research, analyze, interpret, and apply legislation and case related information.
• Ability to effectively and successfully conduct conflict litigation.
• Ability to prepare, present, and review oral and written information reports.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a Juris Doctor degree and at least two years practicing law in the defense of criminal cases or the prosecution of criminal cases. Licensed to practice law by the State of Arkansas by the state board of law examiners. Certified to try up to B felonies pursuant to the certification requirements of the Arkansas Public Defender Commission. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

None

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market: Little Rock