Public Defender, (Trial Attorney III) - Minidoka/Cassia CountiesFull-time (40 hours) - $102,000 annually $5,000 recruitment bonus for first-time State of Idaho employees!SPECIAL NOTIFICATION: This position is a non-classified position and is exempt from classified state service and the rules of the Division of Human Resources and the Idaho Personnel Commission.
POSITION & RESPONSIBILITIESUnder direction, the Trial Attorney III defends clients in low-level felony, criminal, and delinquency cases, including burglary and drug possession cases; child protective act cases; and felony specialty court proceedings and does related work as required. Attorneys at this level are expected to exercise a high degree of independent judgment in handling assigned cases.
Example of Duties- Represent clients in low-level felony, criminal, and delinquency cases, including burglary and drug possession cases; child protective act cases; and felony specialty court proceedings;
- Develop case strategies, investigate facts, and review evidence to determine the best course of legal action;
- Draft and file necessary motions, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and deadlines;
- Negotiate with prosecutors to secure favorable plea agreements or case dismissals when appropriate;
- Appear in court to argue motions, represent clients at hearings, and conduct bench or jury trials as required;
- Collaborate with investigators, social workers, and expert witnesses to support the defense and address client needs holistically;
- Exercise independent judgment in managing caseloads and resolving legal issues with minimal supervision;
- Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced attorneys as needed;
- Stay current on relevant laws, legal precedents, and procedural changes through continuing legal education and training;
- Prepare or oversee the drafting of motions, briefs, memoranda, pleadings and other legal papers;
- Conduct legal research and analyses data and legal documents;
- Apply case law, the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence and Constitutional principles;
- Review and synthesize discovery;
- Interview clients early and frequently and make decisions concerning such things as bail, release from custody, and mental competency to stand trial;
- Determine the need for expert witnesses; locate appropriate experts and schedule them for trial if needed;
- Work in the Case Management System (CMS) to document case work and timekeeping in accordance with SPD policy;
- Practice vertical representation in all cases;
- Follow the American Bar Association (ABA) standards for defending attorneys delivering indigent defense; and
- Other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS- Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited college or university school of law.
- Licensed to practice law, with Idaho State Bar Association membership in good standing.
- 1-2 years of experience as a practicing attorney or a 1-2-year judicial clerkship.
Preferred Qualifications - At least 3 years of experience practicing criminal law.
BENEFITSThe State of Idaho offers a comprehensive total compensation package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include, but are not limited to:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective the first day of the month following your hire date
- Generous paid time off, including vacation and sick leave that begin accruing on your first day of employment and may be used as soon as accrued
- 11 paid holidays each year
- Paid parental leave
- One of the nation's best public retirement systems (PERSI), providing a lifetime retirement benefit once vested
- Optional retirement savings plans, including two supplemental retirement plans with pre-tax and Roth options, plus a deferred compensation plan
- Life insurance coverage for employees, spouses, and eligible dependents
- Short- and long-term disability insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support your well-being
- Training and professional development opportunities to help you grow your career
- Additional employee discounts and wellness perks are available through the State's medical plan
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
LOCATIONBurley, Idaho
HOW TO APPLYQualified applicants who would like to apply for this position must submit the following: 1)
cover letter, 2)
resume, 3)
two references, and 4)
a writing sample. Application materials should be submitted through the Careers with the State of Idaho website, https://statecareers.idaho.gov/, and not directly to the agency.
For assistance on your application, please contact Mariette Barcinas at Mariette.Barcinas@spd.idaho.gov
*Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. 
