Public Defender Practicing Attorney 2026-01037
State of Wyoming See More Job Openings by This Employer
- Description and Functions
Open Until Filled
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:Are you passionate about protecting constitutional rights and advocating for those who need it most? The Wyoming State Public Defender’s Office in Torrington is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for indigent clients. Our attorneys fight for justice, develop their trial skills, and work alongside experienced mentors in a collaborative and supportive environment. Are you passionate about protecting the rights of individuals and ensuring justice for all? Join our team as a Criminal Defense Attorney, where you will provide dedicated legal representation to indigent clients facing criminal charges.
Why Choose a Career with the Wyoming Public Defender’s Office?
- Unmatched Courtroom Experience: Unlike larger jurisdictions where new attorneys wait years for serious cases, here you will quickly gain experience in assault, homicide, and felony cases early in your career.
- Mission-Driven Work: Make a real impact by providing legal defense to those who cannot afford private representation.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Our positions qualify for PSLF, helping you manage student debt while pursuing meaningful work.
- Mentorship & Professional Growth: Work alongside experienced defenders who are committed to mentoring and supporting new attorneys.
- Competitive Benefits & Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a stable salary, generous paid time off, state retirement benefits, and access to Wyoming’s incredible outdoor recreation.
Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA and holidays
- Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future
- Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
- Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities and MUCH MORE!
Click here for detailed information, or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!
Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary?
Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov
Human Resource Contact: Samantha Drew / 307-777-7667 / samantha.drew2@wyo.gov
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.Client Representation: Defend clients at all stages of criminal proceedings, including arraignments, pre-trial hearings, trials, sentencing, and appeals.
Case Preparation: Conduct legal research, draft motions, and develop defense strategies tailored to each case.
Negotiation & Advocacy: Engage in plea negotiations with prosecutors, ensuring outcomes align with clients’ best interests.
Investigation: Work with investigators, expert witnesses, and other resources to gather evidence and build a strong defense.
Caseload Management: Handle a diverse caseload, ensuring timely case progression and compliance with court deadlines.
Mentorship & Development: Provide guidance to junior attorneys or legal interns as needed, fostering professional growth within the office.
Continuing Education: Stay current on changes in criminal law and public defense best practices through ongoing legal education and professional development
- Qualifications
PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
While preference may be given to applicants who are currently licensed to practice law in Wyoming, recent law school graduates and those awaiting bar exam results are strongly encouraged to apply.
KNOWLEDGE:- Ability to manage multiple cases/tasks, manage time, and prioritize tasks.
- Knowledge of trial and hearing procedure and rules of evidence - must have the ability to present statements of fact, law, and argument clearly and logically in written and oral form.
- Knowledge of criminal statutes, court procedures, and legal research methods.
- Skilled in managing a caseload and responding quickly to changing priorities.
- Knowledge of substantive and procedural laws in criminal justice, including state, federal, and administrative law.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Education:Juris Doctorate- Necessary Special Requirements
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Travel required - as necessary by the caseload.
NOTES:- FLSA: Exempt
- This is an At-Will Position
- Supplemental Information
Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.
Click here to view the State of Wyoming Total Compensation Calculator.
URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.
- $5,054.39 - $11,446.91/month
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