Department
Office of the Public DefenderDivision
LegalSalary
$85,819.00 - $97,149.00Job Profile
Scheduled Work Days & Work Hours
Maintaining accurate and complete files with entries made in a timely manner, and providing such reporting as may be required. Current and thorough knowledge of corrections and community treatment programs and other resources for clients. Participating in periodic evaluations. Periodic preparation of documents supporting office programs and funding. Participating in public defender training and community programs. Intake interviews and financial eligibility determinations as required.
SUPERVISION REQUIRED: Works under the general supervision of unit or division head, with considerable latitude for the exercise of initiative and independent judgment in the representation of clients assigned. Work is reviewed and evaluated periodically. Opportunities will be created to act as second-chair to gain further trial experience.
CASELOAD: Caseloads may be limited in number and/or type, commensurate with skill and experience. Assignment of particularly demanding cases may be accompanied by special assistance and/or resources.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: With respect to representation in individual cases, plans, organizes, coordinates, directs and reviews the work of professional assistants, investigators, social workers, and administrative support staff assigned to assist. May exercise limited responsibility for assignments of cases and intake function in a particular location.
Job Requisition Number
JR103543 STAFF ATTORNEY II (Open Date: 07/24/2026)Pay Grade
U00830 AClassification
Staff Attorney IIClass Definition
The Rhode Island Public Defender is seeking an attorney to represent indigent clients in Rhode Island state courts. Representation may include, depending upon the area of specialty, intake processing, collection of background information concerning the client and offense, interviewing clients and witnesses, case investigation, preparation for court proceedings, legal research and writing, and any other representation functions. Representation also includes appearing in state courts and conducting criminal trials on behalf of indigent clients. Applicants must maintain frequent contact and a good working relationship with clients and possess thorough knowledge of up-to-date and relevant criminal law and procedure. The assistant public defender in this role will represent clients in either the office's Adult Criminal District Court Unit, Family Court Juvenile Unit, or Family Court Parental Rights Unit.
Supplemental Information
Representation of indigent defendants and respondents in all cases assigned. Representation may include, depending upon the area of specialty, intake processing, collection of background information concerning the client and offense, interviewing clients and witnesses, case investigation, preparation for court proceedings, legal research and writing, and any other representation functions. Representation also includes maintaining frequent contact and a good working relationship with client, and thorough knowledge of up-to-date and relevant law and procedure.
