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PUBLIC DEFENDER I
PUBLIC DEFENDER IArkansas.gov • Ashdown, AR, US
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PUBLIC DEFENDER I

PUBLIC DEFENDER I

Arkansas.gov • Ashdown, AR, US
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Overview

Position Number : 22184493 Public Defender I (Full-Time)

County : Howard (Primary), Sevier

Posting End Date : September 17, 2025

Anticipated Starting Salary : $71,027.00

Location : 9th-W Judicial District, Ashdown, AR

  • ALL APPLICANTS MUST BE ABLE TO PASS A PRE-EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND CHECK

Job Series : Public Defenders

Classification : Public Defender I – Career Path

Class Code : LPD03P

Pay Grade : SPC03

Salary Range : $71,027 - $105,120

Summary : The Public Defender I is responsible for providing legal defense services to individuals who cannot afford private counsel, ensuring fair representation in accordance with state and federal laws. The ideal candidate must possess a valid law license in Arkansas and be prepared to represent clients in criminal defense matters, including pre-trial motions, trials, and post-conviction matters.

Responsibilities

  • Meet or exceed the requirements for the position of Public Defender I.
  • Represent indigent clients in criminal cases at all stages of the legal process, including pre-trial motions, trial preparation, trials, plea negotiations, and post-conviction proceedings as required by law.
  • Develop legal abilities for placement in criminal circuit court, adult division, prior to or upon conclusion of probationary period of nine (9) months.
  • Provide legal advice and counsel to clients regarding their rights, case developments, and available options.
  • Develop case strategies, including preparing and filing legal documents, conducting legal research, and evaluating evidence to ensure the best possible defense for clients.
  • Handle a full caseload of criminal cases, including misdemeanor and felony cases, with a focus on both adult and juvenile defendants as required.
  • Maintain constant communication with clients to keep them informed of case status and legal options, providing clear explanations in an understandable manner.
  • Prepare annual reports and other documentation for the Board's review, summarizing accomplishments, challenges, and the status of key initiatives.
  • Conduct thorough investigations into all aspects of each case, including interviewing clients, witnesses, and experts.
  • Review police reports, evidence, and other relevant documentation to assess the strength of the case and identify defense strategies.
  • Prepare and file motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents to support clients' defense.
  • Perform legal research to stay up-to-date with criminal law, case precedents, and legal strategies to ensure effective defense in court.
  • Work closely with other attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff within the Public Defender's Office to provide the best possible defense for clients.
  • Represent clients in court hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials.
  • Negotiate plea agreements with opposing counsel, ensuring clients' best interests are considered in the negotiation process.
  • Report case dispositions on or before the last day of every month for the preceding thirty (30) days to office staff for submission to the Commission.
  • Obtain a minimum of six (6) hours legal education annually in the area of criminal law.

    • Knowledge & Skills

  • In-depth understanding of Arkansas criminal law, procedures, and rules of evidence, as well as federal criminal law as applicable.
  • Strong legal research skills, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop effective defense strategies.
  • Ability to quickly assess case details, identify key issues, and formulate strong arguments for the defense.
  • Strong public speaking skills, including the ability to argue motions, present cases to judges and juries, and deliver persuasive closing arguments.
  • Comfortable managing courtroom dynamics and effectively engaging with witnesses, experts, and opposing counsel.

    • Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
  • Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership.
  • Licensure / Certifications : Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Arkansas, with a valid Arkansas bar membership.
  • Other job-related education and / or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.

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    Public Defender • Ashdown, AR, US

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