Public Defender - Trial
Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender's Office in Cheyenne is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice and continually develop their advocacy and appellate skills while working alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender's Office?
- Unmatched Courtroom Experience: Unlike larger jurisdictions where new attorneys wait years for serious cases, here you will quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.
- Mission-Driven Work: Make a real impact by providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private representation.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Our positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.
- Mentorship & Professional Growth: Work alongside experienced defenders who are committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.
- Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming's incredible outdoor recreation.
Live and Work in Cheyenne, Wyoming As Wyoming's capital and largest city, Cheyenne offers a blend of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure. From historic Western charm to vibrant local events like Cheyenne Frontier Days, you'll be part of a community with a rich legal and political environment. With quick access to hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation in Curt Gowdy State Park and the Medicine Bow National Forest along with a short drive to reach Denver, Colorado, Cheyenne is the perfect place to grow your career while enjoying an excellent quality of life.
Join us and build a meaningful career in public defense!
Essential Functions: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.
- Client Representation: Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.
- Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.
- Negotiation & Advocacy: Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients' best interests.
- Investigation: Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.
- Caseload Management: Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.
- Mentorship & Development: Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office.
- Continuing Education: Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development.
Preferences/Agency Requirements: Preference may be given to applicants who are active members of the Wyoming State Bar. You must be licensed to practice law in Wyoming.
Knowledge:
- Strong case management and prioritization skills.
- In-depth knowledge of trial procedures, rules of evidence, and criminal statutes.
- Excellent legal research and writing abilities.
- Ability to think quickly, adapt to courtroom challenges, and advocate effectively for clients.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Juris Doctorate
Experience: 0-2 years of relevant legal experience.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: Requires membership in the State Bar as an Attorney qualified to practice law in this state.
Physical Working Conditions: Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.
Notes:
- FLSA: Exempt
- This is an At-Will Position