Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender I)

Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services is accepting applications for an Assistant Public Defender (Public Defender I) in the Sedgwick County Public Defender Office in Wichita, Kansas. This position is for entry-level and developing attorneys who will perform legal work under the mentorship of more experienced attorneys and supervision by the Chief Public Defender or designated Deputy Defender.

About the Mission

The Board of Indigents’ Defense Services (BIDS), through its regional public defender offices, represents adults charged with felonies who cannot hire an attorney. BIDS empowers its team to provide relentless representation and collaborative, holistic advocacy in service of client-centered outcomes. The organization is transforming its public defense model to build interdisciplinary, team-based systems that leverage community connections and resources to represent clients holistically.

We seek dynamic, client-centered advocates passionate about public defense and interested in helping rebuild our system into a model of collaborative practice.

Responsibilities

• Represent indigent adults charged with criminal felonies in district court.
• Develop fundamental trial skills and manage all aspects of a caseload.
• Process, organize, and manage complex litigation.
• Handle emergency or crisis situations, frequent interruptions, and multiple calls or inquiries.
• Coordinate with supporting personnel to provide client-centered, holistic representation.
• Occasional travel to courts, jails, and other work locations.

Requirements

• Graduate of an ABA-accredited law school and licensed attorney in good standing in Kansas (or willingness to seek admission immediately upon hire).
• Candidates anticipating taking the 2025 bar exam are eligible to apply.
• Valid driver’s license (required where courts and jails are not within walking distance of the office).
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with electronic devices, e-filing systems, and case management systems.
• Strong time management, organizational skills, and ability to avoid unnecessary case delays.
• Ability to interact respectfully with clients, co-workers, and colleagues.
• Academic curiosity about criminal law and procedure.
• Commitment to treating every client, witness, and colleague with dignity and respect.
• Dedication to client-centered practice and confidentiality.
• Uncompromising personal and professional ethics.

Pay

Compensation for this position (Public Defender I) starts at $62,500.00 - $65,625.01, with variations based on experience or qualifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive State Employee Health Plan (SEHP) coverage starting on the first day, including medical, prescription, dental, and vision.
• Tax-advantaged accounts: Health Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Voluntary benefits: Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness Insurance.
• Access to the HealthQuest Health Center in Topeka for in-person and virtual care.
• Paid sick leave, vacation leave, and State holidays.
• Work-Life Balance programs: paid parental leave, military leave, jury leave, and funeral leave.
• Fitness centers in select locations and employee discounts through the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.