Assistant Public Defender

The position requires representing a culturally diverse population accused of traffic offenses, probation violations, misdemeanors and felonies in Superior Court as well as writing and arguing appeals in the Northern Marians Islands (CNMI), Supreme Court. The applicant must possess a J.D. degree from an ABA accredited law school and be admitted to practice law in a state or territory in good standing such that they are eligible for a temporary admittance to the CNMI Bar Association without having to take the local bar exam. Experience is preferred but demonstrated writing skills and an enthusiastic attitude and ability to learn is just as valuable. This position will focus on bench trials with an extensive motions practice with some appellate practice and jury trials. We also have a drug court and a mental health court program to which one attorney is assigned.  The initial contract is for two years which is renewable. Our body of law is still growing and there are areas not yet settled. This can be an interesting and rewarding life style and practice for the right person with an interest in more writing than most trial public defender offices.