Job Description
Public Defender - Protecting Constitutional Rights and Providing Compassionate Defense (Salary: $84,364.37 - $98,276.72 per year)
Our Mission
- To provide expert defense and uphold the Constitution - To advocate for justice and bring respect and dignity to our clients - To achieve holistic and equitable outcomes
Our Vision
Creating expert teams of advocates for justice Bringing respect and dignity to our clients Achieving holistic and equitable outcomes
Why Work for the Office of the Public Defender?
- Our work changes lives - We make a difference in our communities - We protect constitutional rights - We ensure a fair justice system - We are proud of the work we do - Visit our website for more information
Benefits of Working for OPD
- Opportunity to work and live in beautiful Montana - Access to theaters, museums, fairs, and rodeos - High-quality education system - Abundance of recreational opportunities - Health coverage - Retirement plans - Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays - Work/life balance - Flexible schedules - Room for professional growth - Telework option - Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Materials Required of Applicants
- Cover letter - Resume - References (2 current or former supervisors, 1 professional peer) - Supplemental questions (if applicable)
Job Overview
Position: Public Defender Location: Billings, Montana Schedule: Full-time Salary: $84,364.37 - $98,276.72 per year
Essential Functions
- Represent clients in court, hearings, and other legal proceedings - Provide legal defense for cases involving high-profile, significant liability exposure, or death penalty/life in prison - Review and prepare legal documents - Prepare evidence and exhibits for cases - Interpret and apply state and federal laws - Interview parties, witnesses, and experts - Respond to questions or complaints - Provide legal advice and facilitate decisions - Collaborate with other attorneys during trials and hearings - Stay abreast of changes and developments in the law - Work effectively with marginalized populations - Understand and be sensitive to cultural differences - Serve as a legal advisor across multiple fields of law - Attend continuing education trainings
Physical and Environmental Demands
- Work in a variety of settings (office, court, jails, detention centers, mental health facilities) - Occasional exposure to stressful situations - Attendance of continuing legal education seminars - Travel for court, trainings, and client services (up to 40% of the time)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of legal and court policies, procedures, and practices - Familiarity with methods and tactics in the defense of legal actions - Knowledge of criminal law and procedure in Montana - Ability to stay current with changes in the law - Knowledge of mental disorders and medical terminology - Ability to work with marginalized populations - Skilled in using office equipment and software - Strong organization, time management, and communication skills - Ability to learn and use case management system - Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships - Ability to research and analyze documents - Ability to work independently and collaborate with peers
Minimum Qualifications
- Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school - Membership in the State Bar of Montana - Previous experience in criminal defense preferred
Applicant Pool Statement
If another vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.
Training Assignment
This agency may use a training assignment, which may result in a lower salary. Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.
Telework Eligibility
This position is telework eligible with supervisor approval.
Benefits Package Eligibility
- Health insurance - Paid leave and holidays - Retirement plan
About the Office of Public Defender
The Office of Public Defender serves as a defense attorney for indigent clients in criminal and civil cases. Public defenders must have a passion, commitment, and willingness to work with underprivileged populations to ensure their rights are protected and services are provided.
The State of Montana is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.
To Apply
To be considered for a Public Defender position, applicants must complete and submit their application online and upload the required materials. Visit our website for more information.
