Salary: $82,488.00 - $93,809.00 Annually
Location : Kent County Office of the Public Defender 250 Monroe Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number:
Department: Office of Public Defender
Opening Date: 09/04/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Responsibilities

The Assistant Public Defender I is a professional legal role providing representation to individuals charged with misdemeanors and felonies who cannot afford to hire an attorney. Responsibilities include evaluating evidence, interviewing necessary parties, researching, and writing any necessary court filings, and presenting case materials in court. More than 50% of the cases are misdemeanor however they may include low severity felonies.

Work is performed under general supervision in this team-oriented office.
Minimum Qualifications
Must be a member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan and eligible to practice before Michigan and Federal Courts, and/or the capability of becoming licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan within six months of hire. Must possess a valid Michigan Driver's License.

Required Education:
Possession of an undergraduate degree plus a Juris Doctor or Bachelor of Law degree from an ABA accredited institution or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Kent County offers job security, competitive pay, excellent benefits, and opportunities for growth.

Additional Information

*Notices will come via email so please be sure to monitor the email address indicated on your application*

Are you currently a member in good standing of the State Bar of Michigan?

• Yes
• No

02

If you answered no to the above question, are you eligible to practice before Michigan Courts and capable of becoming licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan within 6 months of hire?
Required Question