
Posting Date
03/25/25Application Deadline
05/16/25Pay Range
$80,000 - $122,000 annuallySalary offers are based on the candidate's equivalent experience and internal equity with other employees within the same job classification. The position is not eligible for overtime compensation.
Job Type
UnclassifiedDepartment
Public DefenderAbout the Position
Are you passionate about helping those in our community who are underserved? Join our team and make a difference by doing something you are passionate about!
As an Attorney, you will represent clients when appointed by the court. You will be making a positive impact on the client's lives by appearing in court and serving as the advocate for the client’s interest throughout the pendency of the case.
About Us
With over 400 employees, the Office of the Public Defender is the largest of the five indigent defense offices in Maricopa County. We are also one of the largest public defender offices in the country. Our office provides innovative, client-centered legal representation in the full range of criminal matters to clients unable to afford legal counsel. Our attorneys and staff are dedicated to treating our clients with respect and dignity as we defend their constitutional rights in a court of law. This is a fast-paced department with an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
Proud to Offer
Work with a greater purpose
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) employer
Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRHP) for attorneys
Exceptional work-life balance
Opportunities for growth and development within Maricopa County
Low-cost, high-value healthcare for you and your qualifying dependents
Child care benefits, including access to our upcoming on-site center Maricopa County Kids Club, dedicated to serving Maricopa County families exclusively
Paid vacation, sick time, and parental leave
Extensive wellness program, including healthcare premium discounts
Employee discounts for goods and services
Maricopa County participates in the Arizona State Retirement System. This defined retirement benefit requires a 12.27% monthly contribution rate and includes a 100% employer match on Day 1
Learn more at Work With Us | Maricopa County, AZ
We Require
Juris Doctor or Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved law school
Must be admitted to practice law and be in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona prior to the start date
Must possess or obtain a valid Arizona driver's license upon hire
We Also Value
Experience in criminal law, public service, or related experience serving indigent populations
Job Contributions
Appear in court, represent clients at scheduled hearings and trials, and present oral arguments in support of clients' legal interests
Research facts and analyze legal issues using both computerized and printed legal research tools
Compose motions, briefs, correspondence, and other legal documents
Prepare cases for trial by interviewing witnesses, visiting crime scenes and other case-related locations, reviewing evidence on and off-site
Discuss and present analysis of legal issues to clients and individuals within the criminal justice community
Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, co-workers, supervisors, and others
Travel to courts, jails, detention centers, and correctional facilities to effectively represent clients
Work effectively with a team of professionals, including other attorneys, mitigation specialists, investigators, and paralegals
Contribute to the improvement of the office and indigent representation by teaching, mentoring, submitting articles and training materials, and serving on committees and workgroups
Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to assisting in other areas of the office as needed
Working Conditions
Traumatic subject matter (crime scenes, accidents, etc.) interruptions, time pressure, high volumes of work, handling multiple or complicated tasks, unscheduled tasks, frequently changing tasks, accuracy, decision making, concentration/vigilance, teamwork, working in close physical proximity with others, public contact, and overtime/rotating shifts may be a common occurrence
Ability to lift 15 - 25 pounds from the floor to waist, 15 pounds from waist to shoulder, or shoulder to overhead, or carry 15 - 25 pounds a distance of 100 feet
Travel to and from court locations, government facilities, and other job-related locations as necessary, which may include periodic travel outside of Maricopa County, subject to County policies regarding vehicle use
Selection Procedure
Only the most qualified candidates will be considered
Consideration will only be given to candidates who submit online applications
Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile
Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing requirements for positions designated as safety-sensitive
Maricopa County is an equal opportunity employer.
Apply Now!
- $80,000 - $122,000/year