Minimum Qualifications
To qualify for the Senior Assistant Public Defender position, Virginia State Bar admission or eligibility for admission by waiver is required. Applicants must be effective and persuasive advocates with extensive knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence. The qualified applicant will be well-organized and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Teamwork is highly valued in this office, and the qualified applicant will have demonstrated proficiency in working with others as a member of the criminal defense team to achieve successful outcomes for clients. Applicants must demonstrate leadership, mentorship, and management abilities, and have at least three (3) years of experience as a criminal defense attorney. A valid driver’s license and the means to travel to all courts and regional jails is required.
To qualify for the Assistant Public Defender II position, the applicant must have at least one (1) year of experience as a criminal defense attorney along with the qualifications listed below. Prior experience in Indigent Criminal Defense is required to qualify for the Assistant Public Defender II position.
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and Virginia State Bar admission (or eligibility for admission by waiver) is required for consideration for this full-time, salaried position.
A sincere interest in the cause of indigent defense.
The ability to learn and quickly internalize feedback is important.
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 are required.
Knowledge of criminal law and evidence is required.
Additional Considerations
Previous experience in a supervisory or leadership role will be strongly considered for the Senior Assistant Public Defender position.