Assistant Public Defender - Misdemeanor Division

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Houston, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 16733
Department: Public Defender's Office
Opening Date: 08/19/2026
Closing Date: 9/19/ :59 PM Central
Position Description
About The Harris County Public Defender's Office:
The Harris County Public Defender's Office is a holistic, client-centered office committed to providing high-quality representation to indigent clients. We are seeking dedicated attorneys who are passionate about indigent defense and committed to advancing justice for our clients and community.
Position Overview:
The Harris County Public Defender's Office has an opening for an Assistant Public Defender in the Misdemeanor Division of the Trial Bureau. The Assistant Public Defender provides holistic, client-centered representation to individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses in Harris County.
Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide zealous, client-centered representation in the County Criminal Courts at Law while maintaining the highest level of professionalism.
• Conduct legal research; analyze and interpret legal issues; and draft motions, memoranda, and other pleadings, subject to supervisory review.
• Collaborate with investigators and support staff to prepare case files, gather evidence, and develop strong defense strategies.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to develop and implement defense strategies tailored to each client's individual needs and goals.
• Foster a respectful, team-oriented environment with clients, colleagues, and court personnel, while supporting co-workers and contributing to a positive office culture.
• Partner with other divisions and interdisciplinary team members within the office to provide holistic representation and address clients' broader needs.
• Advise and communicate regularly with clients regarding case strategy, legal options, and case developments, ensuring clients are informed and actively involved in decision-making.
• Maintain consistent communication with clients, witnesses, and opposing counsel, including regular jail visits to ensure incarcerated clients remain informed and supported.
• Prepare cases for hearings and trial; litigate cases from appointment through disposition; examine witnesses; present evidence and legal arguments; and conduct pretrial hearings, negotiations, and plea discussions.
• Participate in office trainings, professional development programs, and continuing legal education opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission of the office.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
If you need special services or accommodations, please call or email
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Requirements
Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Licensure:

• Current license to practice law with the State Bar of Texas.
• Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Good written and oral communications skills.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• The ability to manage a demanding caseload as assigned from the courts.
• The ability to work in a team environment.

NOTE : Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

• Regular Full-time
• Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Salary:

• Depends on Qualifications
• Based on 26 Pay Periods
  • Plus, benefits

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
HARRIS COUNTY EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Harris County offers a highly competitive benefits program, featuring a comprehensive group health plan and defined benefit retirement plan.
The following benefits are offered only to Harris County employees in regular (full-time) positions:
Health & Wellness Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Wellness Plan
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account

Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Ten (10) days of vacation leave per year (accrual rate increases after 5 years of service)
• Eleven (11) County-observed holidays
• One (1) floating holiday per year
• Paid Parental Leave*
• Sick Leave

Retirement Savings Benefit

• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan

The following benefits are available to Harris County employees in full-time and select part-time positions:

• Professional learning & development opportunities
• Retirement pension (TCDRS defined benefit plan)
• Flexible work schedule*
• METRO RideSponsor Program*

* Participation may vary by County department. The employee benefits plans of Harris County are extended to all eligible participants across various departments with the exception of the Harris County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, for which the cited Health & Wellness Benefits are administered through the State of Texas.
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, group health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Harris County Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County Benefits & Wellness website:
01
Do you have a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school?

• Yes
• No

02
Are you currently a member of the State Bar of Texas in good standing and licensed to practice law?

• Yes
• No

Required Question