Assistant Public Defender
About the role
We seek passionate attorneys at all experience levels—from recent law grads/3Ls to seasoned trial lawyers—to provide high-quality representation to indigent clients. Handle misdemeanors, juveniles, and felonies; conduct investigations; develop strategies; advocate in court (hearings, trials, sentencings); draft motions; negotiate pleas; and collaborate on holistic defenses. Senior roles include mentoring juniors and complex case leadership.
Responsibilities
- Manage diverse caseloads, from misdemeanors/juveniles to serious felonies.
- Investigate cases, research law, and build defense strategies.
- Advocate zealously in court, including jury/bench trials and mental health dockets.
- Collaborate with team for client-centered support.
- Mentor staff (senior levels), engage in outreach, and contribute to office policies.
- Maintain ethics, confidentiality, and professional development.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Licensed to practice in Texas (or eligible/awaiting bar results).
- Valid Texas driver's license and reliable vehicle.
- Experience: Entry-level (
- Skills: Familiarity with Texas criminal law; proficient in legal research, drafting, technology (Microsoft Office, etc.); strong communication; ability to work with diverse/incarcerated populations.
Benefits
- Competitive salary plus Victoria County perks: low-cost health/dental/vision insurance, prescription/FSA options, Texas County Retirement System (7% return, 200% match, lifetime benefit), tuition assistance, gym discounts, optional life/AD&D/disability policies.
Pay
$75,000 - $115,000+ Depending on Experience Level I: 3L/Grad-2yrs Level II: 2yr+ Level III: 5y+
Schedule
Effective Date: 8/15/25 - Until Filled
Apply
Email Resume and Cover Letter to bw@cxdtx.org
About Victoria, Texas
Nestled in the Texas Coastal Bend, Victoria blends big-city amenities with small-town charm. Enjoy rich history, outdoor recreation, arts, diverse cuisine, a strong economy (healthcare, education, manufacturing), affordable housing, and top-rated schools. Just two hours from Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, it's the ideal crossroads for a high quality of life.
Job Summary
We seek passionate attorneys at all experience levels—from recent law grads/3Ls to seasoned trial lawyers—to provide high-quality representation to indigent clients. Handle misdemeanors, juveniles, and felonies; conduct investigations; develop strategies; advocate in court (hearings, trials, sentencings); draft motions; negotiate pleas; and collaborate on holistic defenses. Senior roles include mentoring juniors and complex case leadership.
Essential Duties
- Manage diverse caseloads, from misdemeanors/juveniles to serious felonies.
- Investigate cases, research law, and build defense strategies.
- Advocate zealously in court, including jury/bench trials and mental health dockets.
- Collaborate with team for client-centered support.
- Mentor staff (senior levels), engage in outreach, and contribute to office policies.
- Maintain ethics, confidentiality, and professional development.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- J.D. from an accredited law school.
- Licensed to practice in Texas (or eligible/awaiting bar results).
- Valid Texas driver's license and reliable vehicle.
- Experience: Entry-level (
- Skills: Familiarity with Texas criminal law; proficient in legal research, drafting, technology (Microsoft Office, etc.); strong communication; ability to work with diverse/incarcerated populations.
Benefits
- Competitive salary plus Victoria County perks: low-cost health/dental/vision insurance, prescription/FSA options, Texas County Retirement System (7% return, 200% match, lifetime benefit), tuition assistance, gym discounts, optional life/AD&D/disability policies.
Pay
$75,000 - $115,000+ Depending on Experience Level I: 3L/Grad-2yrs Level II: 2yr+ Level III: 5y+
Schedule
Effective Date: 8/15/25 - Until Filled
Apply
Email Resume and Cover Letter to bw@cxdtx.org
About Crossroads Defenders
Crossroads Defenders (CxD) is a new, holistic public defender's office serving Victoria, Jackson, Lavaca, and Refugio Counties in Texas. We represent indigent clients in criminal cases from juvenile offenses to non-capital felonies, aiming to be a model for rural defense. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, training, and techniques, we deliver strong advocacy while providing wrap-around services for employment, mental health, substance abuse, housing, and immigration needs. Join a collaborative team of attorneys, investigators, social workers, and support staff dedicated to client-centered justice in underserved communities.
Victoria County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who can deliver results for our clients.