State of Arkansas · 7 hours ago
PUBLIC DEFENDER I
Conway, AR
Part-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry Level
$71K/yr - $105K/yrThe State of Arkansas is seeking a Public Defender I to provide legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel. The role involves representing clients in criminal cases, developing legal strategies, and ensuring fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws.
EducationEmploymentGovernmentPublic RelationsRecreation
Responsibilities
Meet or exceed the requirements for position of Public Defender I
Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law
Develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, prior to or upon conclusion of probationary period of nine (9) months
Provide legal advice and counsel to clients regarding their rights, case developments, and available options
Develop case strategies, including preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence to ensure the best possible defense for clients
Handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases, with a focus on both adult and juvenile defendants as required
Maintain constant communication with clients to keep them informed of case status and legal options, providing clear explanations in an understandable manner
Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board’s review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives
Conduct thorough investigations into all aspects of each case, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts
Review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess the strength of the case and identify defense strategies
Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents to support clients’ defense
Perform legal research to stay up-to-date with criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies to ensure effective defense in court
Work closely with other attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff within the Public Defender's Office to provide the best possible defense for clients
Represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials
Negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel, ensuring clients' best interests are considered in the negotiation process
Report case dispositions on or before the last day of every month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the Commission
Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law
Qualification
Required
Must be able to pass a pre-employment background check
Possess a valid law license in Arkansas
Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership
In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as federal criminal law as applicable
Strong legal research skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies
Ability to quickly assess case details, identify key issues, and formulate strong arguments for the defense
Strong public speaking skills, including the ability to argue motions, present cases to judges and juries, and deliver persuasive closing arguments
Comfortable managing courtroom dynamics and effectively engaging with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel
Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law
Company
State of Arkansas
State of Arkansas is a government organization that offers child support, business, employment, education, and recreational services.
Founded in 1836
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Frank Andrews
State Chief Security Officer
Larry Walther
Director of the Department of Finance and Administration and Chief Fiscal Officer
Recent News
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2025-08-29
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2025-06-26
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