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Montgomery County, PA · 2 months ago

Assistant Public Defender

Norristown, PA

Full-time

Onsite

New Grad, Entry Level

$74K/yr - $97K/yr

Montgomery County Public Defender’s Office is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Assistant Public Defender for their Fall 2026 class. This role is designed for law school graduates awaiting bar results, where they will serve as Law Clerks, receiving training and performing legal research until they pass the bar exam.

GovernmentLaw EnforcementPublic SafetySocial Assistance

Responsibilities

Participate in structured training programs designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for the role of an Assistant Public Defender

Accompany and observe experienced attorneys in various phases of legal proceedings to gain practical insights and experience

Conduct thorough legal research and draft legal documents, motions, briefs, and other necessary paperwork under the supervision of experienced attorneys

Engage with clients, including visiting recently incarcerated clients, to understand their cases, gather relevant information, and provide updates on case progress

Upon passing the bar exam, transition to the role of Assistant Public Defender, taking on full responsibilities as an Assistant Public Defender

If the bar exam is not passed on the first attempt, continue to support the Public Defender’s Office in the capacity of Law Clerk and prepare for the next available bar exam

Assist in the direct personal consultation with public defender clients from the inception of legal proceedings through their completion

Prepare persuasive legal arguments to advocate for the client’s interest at each stage of the legal proceeding

Oversee the discovery, collection, and presentation of all facts that support a client’s interests at each stage of the legal proceedings

Engage in holistic representation practices that attempt to assist the client in collateral matters impacting direct legal representation

Work within the organization to advocate for structural change benefiting the interest of public defender clients

Perform related work at the request of the Defender or First Assistant when necessary

Qualification

Legal ResearchLegal WritingCriminal JusticeCommunication SkillsOrganizational SkillsCommitment to Public ServicePresentation SkillsWork EthicRelationship-Building Skills